2: Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 - 1827)

Beethoven's contributions to music were monumental. His passionate intensity and brilliant design brought instrumental music to a new level. However, the famous composer had a hard life. Raised by an abusive, alcoholic father, Beethoven was responsible for the well-being of his struggling family by the age of 18. One of the most tragic aspects of his life was his gradual descent into deafness, which occurred between the ages of 30 and 49 and may have come as a result of his father's beatings. Remarkably, he was able to compose some of his most esteemed work after losing his hearing.

His internal struggle is documented in letters to his brothers, where he discussed his flirtation with suicide. Authors Hershman and Lieb propose in their book that Beethoven probably struggled with bipolar disorder. In addition, Francois Martin Mai brings up the possibility that he specifically suffered from bipolar depression in the book "Diagnosing Genius." Mai argues that, despite his tendencies toward depression, Beethoven had periods of intensity and vigor consistent with bipolar disorder. Examinations and tests of Beethoven's hair recently revealed a dangerously high lead content [source: Walsh]. This could have triggered not only his mental illness but also the digestive maladies of which he often complained.

Beethoven may rule the music world, but who's possibly the greatest scientist of all time? Find out on the next page.