Eduard Fraenkel

Eduard Fraenkel was a prominent German classical scholar, specializing in the field of literature. Born in 1888 to a family of assimilated Jews in the German Empire, he pursued his academic interests in classics at the esteemed universities of Berlin and Göttingen. His scholarly endeavors ultimately led him to become a distinguished figure in his field, marked by a deep understanding of Latin and its literary significance.

Fraenkel's academic career was significantly impacted by the rise of the Nazi Party and the subsequent introduction of antisemitic legislation in 1934. Forced to flee his homeland, he sought refuge in the United Kingdom, where he eventually found a new home at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. From 1935 to 1953, he held the prestigious position of Corpus Christi Professor of Latin at the University of Oxford, solidifying his reputation as a leading classical scholar. Throughout his tenure, Fraenkel was recognized for his contributions to the field, earning him a Fellowship of the British Academy (FBA). He passed away in 1970, leaving behind a legacy as a renowned expert in Latin literature.