When was Wilhelm Mannhardt born and where did he grow up?
Wilhelm Mannhardt entered the world on the 26th of March 1831 in Friedrichstadt. He grew up in Danzig under the care of a Mennonite preacher father.
Questions about Wilhelm Mannhardt
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What major project did Wilhelm Mannhardt launch in 1865 to gather folk knowledge?
A massive project began in 1865 when he sent out 150,000 questionnaires to farmers and teachers. These surveys covered agrarian traditions, rituals, and superstitions across several languages.
Which books did Wilhelm Mannhardt publish between 1875 and 1877 about forest cults?
The most significant texts emerged between 1875 and 1877 under the title Wald- und Feldkulte. Band 1 focused on tree cults among Germanic tribes while Band 2 examined ancient forest and field cults from northern European sources.
How did Wilhelm Mannhardt's research focus change after 1863 due to his health issues?
Poor health forced Mannhardt into retirement from active research after 1863. He spent the last 17 years of his life working as a librarian at the Danzig municipal library.
When did Wilhelm Mannhardt die and where are his personal manuscripts kept today?
Wilhelm Mannhardt died on the 25th of December 1880. His personal manuscripts now rest within the Berlin University Library archives.