The Setting -- Beethoven's life -- Beethoven's health problems -- The Interpretation -- Illness and creativity -- Appendices. Glossary of medical terms ; Beethoven's medical history ; Criteria for alcohol dependence and abuse ; Dr. Andreas Wawruch's medical report
Summary
Beethoven's extraordinary ability to compose great music despite severe health problems, including deafness and depression, has puzzled and inspired. In Diagnosing Genius François Martin Mai looks at the relationship between Beethoven's health and creativity to show how the composer was able to transcend physical and emotional torment to produce some of the most powerful and beautiful music in Western culture
