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Justinus KernerGerman poet and medical writer
Date of Birth: 18.09.1786
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Childhood and Education
- Literary Pursuits in Tübingen
- Poetry and Collaboration
- Medical Career and Contributions
- - "Das Wildbad im Königreich Württemberg" (1813)
- Retirement and Legacy
Childhood and Education
Justinus Kerner, born in Ludwigsburg, Germany, received a classical education in his hometown and Maubronn. Despite initially pursuing an apprenticeship in a weaving factory, his exceptional performance earned him a scholarship to the University of Tübingen in 1804.
Literary Pursuits in Tübingen
At Tübingen, Kerner immersed himself in medicine and literature. He joined a literary circle that included Ludwig Uhland and Gustav Schwab, actively engaging in literary pursuits alongside his medical studies. In 1808, he obtained his doctorate and subsequently embarked on a journey that inspired his work, "Reiseschatten von dem Schattenspieler Luchs" (1811).
Poetry and Collaboration
Kerner's literary talents shone brightly in collaboration with Uhland and Schwab. The "Poetischer Almanach" (1812) and "Deutscher Dichterwald" (1813) showcased some of his finest poems. His reputation as a gifted poet firmly established, Kerner became an important figure in German Romantic literature.
Medical Career and Contributions
In 1815, Kerner was appointed District Medical Officer in Gaildorf and later relocated to Weinsberg in 1818. Beyond his medical practice, he penned several influential medical treatises on animal magnetism:
- "Das Fettgift oder die Fettsäure und ihre Wirkung auf den tierischen Organismus" (1822)
- "Das Wildbad im Königreich Württemberg" (1813)
Literary Legacy in WeinsbergKerner's home in Weinsberg became a literary hub, welcoming renowned poets such as Christian Friedrich Alexander and Nikolaus Lenau. He also authored "Bilderbuch aus meiner Knabenzeit" (1859), chronicling his youth, and demonstrated his historical storytelling abilities in "Die Bestürmung der württembergischen Stadt Weinsberg im Jahre 1525" (1820).
Retirement and Legacy
By 1851, Kerner's declining eyesight forced him to retire from medical practice. He spent his remaining years under the care of his daughter in Weinsberg, until his passing in 1862. His gravestone in the Weinsberg cemetery bears an inscription he chose himself: "Friederike Kerner und ihr Justinus."
