Sonja Hilzinger

Although Bettine Brentano (1775-1859), married von Arnim, was not born in Berlin, she is nonetheless considered a Berliner. She left her mark on this city, where she lived for almost half a century. Bettine lived fully in her time yet was already ahead of her era. This is why her life’s design and her writings remain relevant even today. Her Berlin was the Prussian capital during the years of restoration, the conservative reorganization of Europe following the revolution in France. Bettine's places in Berlin—her frequently changed residences—were located in the old center, in Friedrichstadt, and in Tiergarten. These were spaces of lively discussion, accessible to intellectuals and artists, civil servants, and opposition members alike.