Contemporary Austrian Studies - 21: Austrian Lives

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For centuries, biography writing has been dominated by male perspectives, from Plutarch and Sueton's accounts of classical figures to medieval hagiographies and Renaissance artist narratives. The genre has evolved, particularly in the twentieth century, where the focus has shifted to the lives of women, minorities, and ordinary individuals. This volume of Contemporary Austrian Studies presents a diverse array of Austrian lives and biographical approaches, highlighting both prominent political figures and the intellectual biographies of thinkers from pre- and post-World War II Vienna, such as Viktor Frankl and Eugenie Schwarzwald. Additionally, it explores the prosopographical study of everyday Austrians, illuminating the experiences of soldiers, prisoners of war, and farming families, thereby bringing to light the often-overlooked narratives of common people. The contributors emphasize the balance between factual accuracy and the biographer's imagination, offering intimate insights into the lives of intriguing individuals while also reflecting on the broader context of wartime Vienna. This collection underscores the ongoing need to explore and document the rich tapestry of Austrian lives, both notable and ordinary.