Famous Figures Whose Forgotten Siblings Were Just As Talented
If you think your sibling rivalries can get fierce, imagine how complicated being the brother or sister of a historical icon must be. A few great men and women from the past had siblings who went toe-to-toe with them, and in some cases, these family members were incredibly supportive and vital to their success. In others, these pairs stopped at nothing to destroy each other.
1. Wolfgang Amadeus and Maria Anna Mozart
We all know that Amadeus was a child prodigy, but his elder sister was just as talented, if not more so. In the siblings' sold-out concerts, Maria Anna often received top billing. Her father said that "although she is only 12 years old, is one of the most skillful players in Europe." If that's the case, why isn't she a household name?
The Music Stops
While few could rival Maria Anna's talents on the harpsichord, in the 18th century it simply wasn't proper for a grown woman to enjoy a professional music career. Her parents sidelined her so she could focus on starting a family. Maria Anna reportedly penned some compositions as an adult, though none remain in existence.
2. Emily and William Austin Dickinson
Emily Dickinson wasn't known for her warmth towards many people, but her brother Austin was an exception. He had a way of getting the poet to come out of her shell, and he established himself as a successful lawyer and treasurer. However, Austin also stirred up quite a bit of drama in Emily's life.
Mistress and Publisher
Unhappy in his own marriage, Austin began a passionate affair with Mabel Loomis Todd, the wife of a brilliant astronomer. As their romance became public knowledge, Emily's sister-in-law said, "Mabel effectively destroyed the Dickinson family." But that relationship also started a correspondence between Mabel and the reluctant poet. From there, Austin's mistress became one of Dickenson's primary editors and publishers.