Alchemy
Alchemy follows many pursuits, but the main goals of alchemy are transmuting common metals into precious metals such as silver and gold (called spagyric alchemy), and creating panacea. Panacea is rumored to be a remedy that would cure all diseases and prolong life. It was able to prolong life indefinitely. Some alchemists also may have had the ultimate goal of creating a universal solvent. The Philosopher's Stone was the ultimate accomplishment or creation an alchemist could achieve, and it was this stone that was the key to the other goals of alchemy. Aside from these practical and magical purposes, alchemy was also very concerned with theory and philosophy.
The only known wizard to successfully create the philosopher's stone was Nicolas Flamel, an alumnus of Beauxbatons. The stone produced the Elixir of Life, which allowed him and his wife to live up to six centuries old. They could have lived indefinitely, but the destruction of the stone was neccessary when Lord Voldemort became interested in using it for dark purposes. Aside from Nicolas, African witches and wizards have been known to be especially skilled with alchemy. In fact, Egypt has a dedicated Centre for Alchemical Studies.
Though Hogwarts occasionally discusses alchemy in their curriculum (e.g., in sixth and seventh year Potions) and may offer classes if there is enough interest, Alchemy is always offered at Beauxbatons as many students find the theory and philosophy interesting and useful.
The only known wizard to successfully create the philosopher's stone was Nicolas Flamel, an alumnus of Beauxbatons. The stone produced the Elixir of Life, which allowed him and his wife to live up to six centuries old. They could have lived indefinitely, but the destruction of the stone was neccessary when Lord Voldemort became interested in using it for dark purposes. Aside from Nicolas, African witches and wizards have been known to be especially skilled with alchemy. In fact, Egypt has a dedicated Centre for Alchemical Studies.
Though Hogwarts occasionally discusses alchemy in their curriculum (e.g., in sixth and seventh year Potions) and may offer classes if there is enough interest, Alchemy is always offered at Beauxbatons as many students find the theory and philosophy interesting and useful.