Numerous theories claim that genius and insanity go hand-in-hand, although this has not yet been proven. Even so, there are a few examples that support this outlook.
Vincent van Gogh
One of the greatest painters was born on March 30, 1853 and committed suicide on July 29, 1890. His paintings are distinguished by his unique style of expression but Vincent van Gogh becomes famous only after his death.
The Dutch painter, who is one of the most renowned artists of the art world, did not live an easy life.
Van Gogh's personality possessed a combination of a degree of eccentricity and shyness unseen at that time, which led him to avoid even the people who tried to help him.
The genius painter is famous for cutting off one of his ears, eating the paint which he used, and drinking turpentine.
According to some psychoanalysts, van Gogh suffered from bipolar disorder, in which maniacal depression and creativity are characteristic.
Edgar Allan Poe
The famous American poet and writer was born January 19, 1809 and died October 7, 1849.
The author of one of the most popular detective novels also suffered from maniacal depression and often confided that he wanted to kill himself.
The exact cause of the death of Edgar Allen Poe is still unknown today, but it is theorized that alcohol abuse led to the writer's end.
"Men have called me mad; but the question is not yet settled, whether madness is or is not the loftiest intelligence – whether much that is glorious – whether all that is profound – does not spring from disease of thought – from moods of mind exalted at the expense of the general intellect, " claimed Poe.
Ludwig van Beethoven
The Austrian composer's contribution to music has been monumental, but he too did not have an easy life.
Ludwig van Beethoven was born on March 26, 1827 and was raised by an alcoholic father, who often cruelly beat his son. As a result of the violence, Beethoven began going deaf at 30 years of age, and was completely deaf at 49.
Beethoven also spoke often of suicide and modern-day researchers believe that the composer suffered from bipolar disorder as well.
Sir Isaac Newton
The author of the Law of Gravity endured psychological problems, characterized by changes in mood, which made it difficult to communicate with him.
Isaac Newton was born January 4, 1643, with his father dying after his birth and him being separated from his mother when he was only 2 years old. It is postulated that his traumatic childhood led to his future psychological problems.
