Tore Renberg: Die Lungenschwimmprobe

In the organizer's words:

Leipzig in the 17th century is the setting for this novel, which sheds light on the beginnings of modern forensic medicine. It describes the case of 15-year-old Anna Voigt, who was accused of infanticide in 1681. In order to prove her innocence, a historical forensic method is used for the first time to determine whether her newborn child was born alive or dead. The lung float sample itself is considered the beginning of modern forensic medicine. The novel depicts the divided society of the 17th century in the middle of Europe: traditions, beliefs and jurisprudence inherited from the Middle Ages meet the first beginnings of the early Enlightenment.

The medical faculty, forensic medicine and theology of the University of Leipzig at that time are mentioned in the book. Professors of the 17th century, known from portrait paintings in the art collection and epitaphs in the Paulinum, are brought to life in the novel.

We want to discuss this with the author: What are the facts, where do imagination and fantasy begin?

The author Tore Renberg in conversation with:

• Dr. Christine Hübner, Custody/Art Collection
• Prof. Dr. Julia Schmidt-Funke, Chair of Early Modern History

The moderator will be Dr. Anne Lipp, Leipzig University Library. The event is a cooperation between the Custody, the University Library and the Chair of Early Modern History.