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[Goethe's skull and skeleton].

Herbert Ullrich1

  • 1Institut für Medizinische Anthropologie, Zentrum für Human- und Gesundheitswissenschaften, Berliner Hochschulmedizin, Berlin. herbert.ullrich@surfeu.de

Anthropologischer Anzeiger; Bericht Uber Die Biologisch-Anthropologische Literatur
|January 18, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Newly analyzed photos reveal Goethe's skeleton showed significant spinal ankylosis, likely causing his stiff posture and gait. This palaeopathological study offers new insights into the health of the renowned writer.

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Area of Science:

  • Anthropology
  • Palaeopathology
  • Forensic Anthropology

Background:

  • Goethe's skeleton underwent conservation in 1970, documented in the "Sonderakte Mazeration Goethe".
  • Previously unpublished photographs of Goethe's skull and skeleton are analyzed.
  • This study examines anthropological and palaeopathological aspects of Goethe's remains.

Discussion:

  • Detailed analysis of Goethe's dentition at death and familial prognathism.
  • Evaluation of Goethe's stature based on skeletal evidence, re-evaluating contemporary accounts.
  • Examination of pathological changes, including ankylosis of thoracic vertebrae and ribs.

Key Insights:

  • Skeletal analysis reveals ankylosis of eight thoracic vertebrae (T5-12) and five ribs.
  • Pathological changes attributed to disc degeneration, spondylosis deformans, and Forestier's disease.
  • A strong correlation is suggested between the observed ankylosis and Goethe's documented stiff posture and gait, possibly originating in his forties.

Outlook:

  • Further research could explore the progression of Forestier's disease in historical figures.
  • Comparative studies on skeletal remains of notable historical figures can enhance understanding of age-related conditions.
  • This research provides a unique intersection of historical documentation and scientific analysis of a literary icon.

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