121. Alfred von Arneth

The historian Alfred von Arneth, who died on July 29, was one of those amiable, distinguished personalities who were very much at home in Austria as long as this state could be governed centrally and bureaucratically from Vienna. Since the individual nations began to stir and assert their special desires, these personalities have felt uncomfortable. The serene calm and dignity with which they lived does not match the loud tone with which younger elements demand the rights of their peoples. In a paternal, patriarchal manner, the old men wanted to care for their peoples and pursue their serious work in silence. Everything they did was solemn and measured. The top hat and the long black skirt dressed them best. There was something objective and passionless about them. Arneth, however, had two souls in that he was the son of Körner's former bride Antonie Adamberger. This brought a touch of romance into his character. But the serene scholar, the calm, cool politician was still predominant. Arneth's historical works are regarded as exemplary. The History of Maria Theresa, Beaumarchais and Sonnenfels, Joseph II and Catherine of Russia. His speeches in the various representative bodies testify to a genuine old Austrian, but also liberal attitude. Austria must be saddened to see men like Arneth pass away, for with them always goes a good part of its tried and tested old traditions to the grave.