BEETHOVEN 200 YEARS AGO TODAY: Wednesday, July 26, 1820 (approximately)

Conversation Book 15, leaves 25v through 26r

Beethoven begins writing down his thoughts about sister-in-law Johanna in a more charitable frame of mind, suggesting that these notes were written after he received word from the Magistracy that her appeal to the Emperor was unsuccessful. He writes, “We must now also consider that we practice humanity toward her.”

This solicitude does not last long, however, and he quickly swings back into hostility as he recalls how she has been a bad influence on Karl. Beethoven concludes, “But if she comes, then absolutely do not listen to her and drive her out of the house.”