Since The Philosopher’s Stone was published in 1997, the Harry Potter series has become a global sensation. Characters such as Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger are loved by fans, whose magical adventures have been turned into films and stage plays. JK Rowling’s work is full of historical and mythological references. Many are still potterheads even though there are controversies related to the author herself. Fans often wonder if the wizarding world could be real, but it’s all fictional, except for one character. Nicolas Flamel, who appears in the first book and later in the Fantastic Beasts series, was based on a real person. Interestingly, Flamel is known for his association with creating the Philosopher’s Stone and is believed to have lived for more than 100 years.
According to the story, Albus Dumbledore who is Hogwarts headmaster was friends with Flamel as well as a creator of the stone. Interestingly, Flamel is based on a real person, born around 1330 in Pontoise, France and was a successful businessman. After his death in 1418, stories began to spread that he had discovered the secrets of witchcraft or alchemy on his way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The stone was said to have special power, as it not only turns metals into gold but it could also produce the potion called, Elixir of Life, which had the ability to extend the drinker’s life.
Nicolas Flamel’s fascination with witchcraft began when a stranger approached him one day with a rare manuscript. He recognised the book from a dream he had, where an angel showed him the same script, saying, “One day you will see in it something that which no other man will be able to see…” The book was filled with mystical symbols that Flamel believed were instructions for alchemy. He gave almost half of his life to translate the entire manuscript and, over time, learned many secrets of alchemy.
Philosopher’s Stone was the only one in existence; it was also close to Flamel’s heart, as it enabled him and his wife to live for many years. In the book, Flamel realises the stone was no longer safe as Lord Voldemort wanted it to regain his lost powers. He assigned Albus Dumbledore to destroy the stone and potion so that he and his wife could die naturally.
Apart from the Harry Potter films, Nicolas Flamel has appeared in various books such as the Notre Dame de Paris, Fullmetal Alchemist, The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, and video games like Assassin’s Creed: Unity and Steelrising.
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