My Autobiography: A Fragment

In this intimate fragment of a scholar’s life, the reader follows a young student whose curiosity steers him away from the classics and toward the hidden realms of language, philosophy, and religion. He recounts how early encounters with Herbart’s ideas sparked a fascination with the science of etymology, prompting him to dive into Arabic, Persian and finally the challenging world of Sanskrit. The narrative paints vivid scenes of a modest upbringing, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, and the mentorship that encouraged him to edit the ancient Rig‑veda.

Beyond the academic milestones, the author reflects on the personal setbacks that shaped his path—most notably a painful rejection for a coveted professorship that, in hindsight, redirected his energies toward broader inquiries into myth and belief. The memoir offers aspiring scholars a candid glimpse of perseverance, the value of supportive friendships, and the delicate balance between ambition and independence, all set against the backdrop of nineteenth‑century intellectual life.