Scientists examining locks of Beethoven’s hair found significant amounts of lead and other toxic substances, shedding new light on the mystery of his deafness and other ailments. The high levels of lead discovered in Beethoven’s hair suggest that lead poisoning could have been a major contributing factor to his deafness and various health issues.
Why it matters:
- Insights into the life and death of a musical titan: The discovery challenges longstanding theories about the cause of Beethoven’s deafness and other health problems, offering new insights into the composer’s life and medical history.
- Historical context: It underscores the potential dangers of lead exposure in the 19th century, particularly through sources like cheap wine, which was commonly adulterated with lead to improve its taste.
- Impact on one of Beethoven’s most celebrated works: Beethoven’s struggle with deafness and his relentless pursuit of artistic expression despite his afflictions provide a poignant backdrop to his Ninth Symphony, adding depth and context to one of his most celebrated works.
