Rugby School Welcomes Dr Kathryn Harkup for Fascinating Public Lecture on the Chemistry of Crime

Rugby School was delighted to welcome Dr Kathryn Harkup, acclaimed author and science communicator, for a captivating guest lecture held in the Macready Theatre. Dr Harkup is renowned for her engaging exploration of the darker and more dangerous side of science. She is the author of several popular science books, most notably A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie, an international best-seller shortlisted for both a Mystery Readers International Macavity Award and a BMA Book Award.

The lecture focused on A is for Arsenic, with Dr Harkup guiding the audience on a fascinating chemical journey through some of Agatha Christie’s most famous mysteries, including The Mysterious Affair at Styles and Murder Is Easy. Using her background in chemistry, she explored the real science behind Christie’s fictional poisons, from arsenic and phosphorus to strychnine, bringing together literature, history and chemistry in a way that was both accessible and intellectually stimulating.

The event was attended not only by Rugby School pupils, but also by students from Rugby High School and a large number of members of the local community, creating a vibrant and enthusiastic audience. Rugby School was also delighted to partner with Hunt’s Bookshop for the occasion, helping to make the evening a great success. Events such as this exemplify Rugby School’s commitment to academic enrichment and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom.