[Behring's personal papers--Behring's lives]

Area of Science:

• Medical History
• Biography Studies

Background:

• Examines the personal papers of Emil von Behring (1854-1917) housed in the Behring archives in Marburg.
• Investigates the history of the first biography of Emil von Behring, published in 1940 by Heinz Zeiss and Richard Bieling during the Nazi era.

Discussion:

• Focuses on Else von Behring (1876-1936), her efforts in organizing her husband's papers, and her search for a biographer.
• Presents new findings from the Behring Works archives, portraying Behring as an entrepreneur vying for scientific and business control.

Key Insights:

• Establishes a link between Behring's archived personal documents and the narrative of his first biography.
• Reveals Else von Behring's significant, yet often overlooked, role in shaping her husband's posthumous representation.
• Uncovers evidence of Emil von Behring's entrepreneurial activities and his strategic battles for influence.

Outlook:

• Suggests a re-evaluation of Emil von Behring's life and legacy, moving beyond traditional scientific hagiography.
• Opens avenues for a more nuanced understanding of scientific figures during periods of political upheaval.
• Encourages further archival research into the intersection of personal papers, biography, and historical context.