Beethoven in Person: His Deafness, Illnesses, and Death (Contributions to the Study of Music and Dance) [Hardcover]

Peter J. Davies (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 30, 2001 | ISBN-10: 0313315876 | ISBN-13: 978-0313315879 | Edition: First.

This critical reevaluation of the causes of many of Beethoven's illnesses offers detailed accounts of the treatments applied by his physicians and a comprehensive rendering of the composer's final illness, death, and burial. Separate chapters discuss the causes of many of Beethoven's illnesses, his autopsy and the exhumations. Following the rediscovery of the original Latin autopsy report in 1970, the author has discovered two faulty translations, which he argues contributed to errors in earlier medical assumptions. New evidence disputes earlier assertions that Beethoven's deafness resulted from syphilis. This fascinating account of Beethoven's ailments should appeal to Beethoven enthusiasts and to both the medical and music communities.

Editorial Reviews

Review

.,."not only detailed, technical coverage of all of Beethoven's medical problems but also backgroound on medical practice and prominent physicians of Beethoven's time. the book is thoroughly documented and draws on a wide range of primary and secondary musical and medical sources. Recommended for large collections; all levels."-Choice

Book Description

A critical reevaluation of the causes of Beethoven's many illnesses, especially his deafness.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 316 pages
• Publisher: Praeger; First. edition (May 30, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0313315876
• ISBN-13: 978-0313315879
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.4 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,804,596 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #95 in Books > Biographies & Memoirs > People, A-Z > ( B ) > Beethoven, Ludwig

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.