Conclusion

Abstract

In his massive Study of History, metahistorian Arnold Toynbee says that the careers of extraordinary individuals are normally marked by phases of “withdrawal and return.” He added that “such a withdrawal may be a voluntary action,” or it may be “forced by circumstances beyond their control.” Regardless, they go back to the environment out of which they came, ready for renewed greatness.¹

I may at times have neglected these “anonymous forces,” but history is a drama of individuals, too, creatures of their times who shape those times.

—Fritz Stern