Heinrich Hoffmann

Born in Frankfurt am Main in 1809, Heinrich Hoffmann trained as a doctor and went on to work as a physician and psychiatrist. Alongside his medical career, he wrote poetry, picture books, and satirical pieces, bringing a lively imagination to subjects that were often treated very seriously.

He is remembered above all for Struwwelpeter, first published in 1845. The book began as a Christmas present for his young son and became one of the best-known German children's books, famous for its bold illustrations, cautionary tales, and strange, memorable humor.

Hoffmann also played an important role in mental health care in Frankfurt, where he supported reforms in the treatment of psychiatric patients. He died there in 1894, leaving behind a reputation that rests not only on one famous book, but on a career that joined medicine, observation, and a sharply original literary voice.