The late nineteenth-century was an era of contrasts. On the one hand, philosophical materialism was increasing its influence over science. On the other, there was a growing social awareness and quest for spiritual values.

Karl Koenig explores the personal stories of twenty-nine pioneers whose work and experiences helped shape that era. They include artists and writers, social reformers, philosophers and political activists, and scientists. He considers how they responded as individuals to the challenges of the changing world around them. His insights and conclusions are relevant for us today, as we face our own time of change and upheaval.

The biographies include Helen Keller (1880 1968), Samuel Hahnemann (1755 1843), Sigmund Freud (1856 1939), Lou Salome (1861 1937), Gustav Mahler (1860 1911), Charles Darwin (1809 1882) and Adolf von Hildebrand (1847 1921).

Translated by: Simon Blaxland de Lange