Albert Einstein: The Man, An Exhibit Celebrating Our Namesake
Many of us at the College of Medicine know about Albert Einstein, the scientist and great thinker. And we have some sense of his altruism and humanism, as well. But there is much more to Albert Einstein, the man, and thanks to our D. Samuel Gottesman Library staff, we’ll soon be able to glean further insights into our institution’s namesake.
![Albert Einstein in his study, Princeton, New Jersey, 1938; this image is from a collection of 25 postcards produced using photos by American photographer Lotte Jacobi, which were commercially published as a pack in 1979.]()
Albert Einstein in his study, Princeton, New Jersey, 1938; this image is from a collection of 25 postcards produced using photos by American photographer Lotte Jacobi, which were commercially published as a pack in 1979.
Aurelia Minuti, head of research & education, and Caroline Delbourgo Patton, research & education librarian, have assembled an exhibit, Albert Einstein: The Man, featuring books, photos, and more from the library’s stacks and archival materials. Beginning on Einstein’s 144th birthday—Tuesday, March 14, 2023—the special exhibit will be on display in the glass case opposite the first-floor elevators, in Forchheimer.
“While most everyone knows about Einstein’s scientific achievements, they may not know details about his life as a man and private citizen,” said Racheline Habousha, director of the library. “Our exhibit offers a glimpse into that life while showcasing materials from the library’s collections.”
![Albert Einstein and his second wife Elsa, University of Tokyo (Tokyo, November 1922). Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Cammer.]()
Albert Einstein and his second wife Elsa, University of Tokyo (Tokyo, November 1922). Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Cammer.
Through photographs, viewers will get to see Einstein as a child, a husband, a father, a violinist, a sailor, and a traveler. From the books, he emerges as a complex person with strong feelings and ambitions, from a rebellious student to an errant son, a lover, and a hustler.
“We had a lot of fun discovering all kinds of interesting facts about this fascinating man and hope others will too, when they visit the exhibit,” said Aurelia. “We also came across information online that is not part of the exhibit but that further demonstrates Einstein’s humanity and commitment to civil rights and fighting racism. As we seek to embody our institution’s namesake, we can learn a great deal from his example.”
The exhibit will be on view at the library through March 31. Whether walking up a flight from the lobby of Forchheimer, or taking the elevator, Albert Einstein: The Man is on display directly across from the elevators before you enter the library. Head on over to learn about our illustrious and eminent namesake!
Posted on: Monday, March 06, 2023