Historical View

[Link]
Received: February 24, 2016; Accepted: March 4, 2016
doi:10.2399/ana.15.040

Gustaf Retzius – a glimpse into his lifetime

achievements and into the fabric of
his character

M. Gazi Yaflargil, Dianne C. H. Yaflargil

Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Yeditepe University, ‹stanbul, Turkey

Abstract

Magnus Gustaf Retzius, 1842–1919, was a prolific researcher, honored and respected at home and abroad during his life-
time. His achievements are many and varied. He established pivotal and essential foundations in human anatomy and natu-
ral sciences on which, even today, research, teaching, medicine and surgery are founded. He paved the way for future sci-
entists to advance and progress in these fields. The precise portrayal and superb presentation of his studies bear witness to
a man obsessed with revealing the absolute reality. The text of all his anatomic publications is in German. Regretfully no
English translations exist. The high points of Retzius’ research will be presented, and a representation of his lesser-known
pursuits described. This paper aspires to arouse reflection on Retzius’ philosophy, principles, standards and sources of inspi-
ration.
Keywords: anatomist; Gustaf Retzius; history; nervous system
Anatomy 2016;10(1):78–84 ©2016 Turkish Society of Anatomy and Clinical Anatomy (TSACA)

Gustaf Retzius, anatomist, researcher, a man of dili-

gence, tenacity, consistency and curiosity, also a traveler,
writer, poet and artist: courteous, cordial and generous
(Figure 1).[1] We trust that contemplation on some of his
life episodes, his broad interests, enterprising projects,
and references to Retzius by others, will shed light on his
life philosophy, his priorities, his wisdom and his rela-
tionships with his wife, family, colleagues and friends.
Exploring the nature of his prodigious accomplish-
ments generates wonder and admiration for his energy,
proficiency and dedication to the finest detail. His
research interests, and his publications both scientific and
literary, cover an incredible range of subjects, that are
often described and cited in the literature.[2,3] Those publi-
cations that are extraordinary, and others of unanticipated
content will be referred to in this article. At the close of
this text we are sure that Retzius will emerge beyond his
preeminence as an anatomist and researcher.
Two important creations comprise the prominent high
points among his monumental publications: with Axel
Key, “Studien in der Anatomie des Nervensystems und des Figure 1. Magnus Gustaf Retzius. Photograph by Elliott and Fry,1908.[1]
 Gustaf Retzius – a glimpse into his lifetime achievements and into the fabric of his character 79

Bindegewebes”[4] (Studies in the Anatomy of the Central

Nervous System and Connective Tissue [arachnoidea])
1876, and 2 volumes dedicated to the hearing organ: “Die
Gestalt des membranösen Gehörorgans des Menschen”
(The Structure of the Human Membranous Hearing
Organ) and “Das Gehörorgan der Wirbeltiere” (The
Hearing Organ of Vertebrate Animals – a comparative
anatomy of the ear ) 1881–1884.[5,6] Even today, these rich-
ly bound volumes are praised for their accuracy and valu-
able influence on microneurosurgery and otorhinolaryn-
gology, respectively. Each is considered a masterpiece. For
microneurosurgery, it is essential to understand the intri-
cate arachnoid pathways in order to perform transcisternal
approaches to lesions in the brain, because following these
natural pathways, normal brain tissue is preserved.[7,8]
In 1869, Retzius became assistant in pathological
anatomy under Axel Key, at the Karolinska Institute. Axel
Key, ten years Retzius’ senior, introduced cellular pathol-
ogy and other modern theories and methods into anatom-
ic and physiologic research. Scientists, liberal politicians
and artists were among his friends. Teaching and research
were his passion. This was evident in his commitment, loy-
alty, concern and deep involvement with his students.
Retzius had a great affection and regard for Key, and their
friendship matured into a long and productive collabora- Figure 2. Injections of the subarachnoid spaces and ventricles of the
tion.[9–11] brain. Retzius MG. Studien in der Anatomie des Nervensystems, Plate
VII, Vol. I, 1875.[4] [Color figure can be viewed in the online issue, which
Together Retzius and Key began the study of the cere- is available at [Link]]
brospinal fluid organ on cadavers, injecting fluids dyed
with methylene blue and chromium silver into subdural
and subarachnoid spaces to map connections between the
pathways of craniospinal fluid and the central nervous sys-
tem. These investigations produced such favorable find-
ings, the decision was reached to further advance the
research, a project that continued until 1876, culminating
in the publication of “Studien in der Anatomie des
Nervensystems und des Bindegewebes” in two large vol-
umes (Figure 2).[4,12]
Their studies of the compartmental architecture of the
cranio-spinal arachnoidal cisterns and their macroscopic
and microscopic aspects were a first in the history of med-
icine. The relation of the arachnoid fiber system to the
arteries and veins within the cisternal spaces was revealed.
They also demonstrated that the arachnoidal cistern along
the dorsal aspect of the spinal cord is separated by a thin,
fenestrated septum from cervical 2 to dorsal 12. Impressive
drawings and photographs of great beauty and stunning
accuracy documented their discoveries (Figure 3).[4]
Key, but mainly Retzius, drew sketches and made spec-
ifications which Björkman, employed to assist, then drew
Figure 3. Arachnoid detail. Detailed microscopic study of arachnoidal
in detail in preparation for the stone engravers, and for architecture within a sulcus in relation to veins and arteries. Retzius MG.
chromolithography. The presentation and printing of all Studien in der Anatomie des Nervensystems, 1875.[4]

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80 Yaflargil MG, Yaflargil DCH

Rezius’ publications were major considerations. He chose been impossible. The majority of these volumes were given
large folio volumes and quality paper. This proved costly, away to institutions and colleagues at home and abroad.
but allowed optimal imaging of the illustrations. Before To quote Retzius: “Science is costly and seldom returns
Volume II could be completed, a fire in Stockholm, the costs…..Scientific work must be seen as a sacrifice in the service
greatest of that era, completely destroyed the printing of human culture”.[9]
house including all original manuscripts, lithograghic Retzius was born into a family of acclaimed scientists.
stones and printed plates of Volume II. Worse still, one of His father earned fame as an anatomist and anthropolo-
the prominent lithographers perished in the blaze. Retzius, gist. His grandfather, professor of natural history, was
an inbred optimist, swung into action to prepare a new acclaimed for his achievements in chemistry, botany, zool-
series of slides and re-write the German text. ogy, mineralogy and paleontology. His uncle on his moth-
‘Studien in der Anatomie des Nervensystems und er’s side was a botanist and entomologist. Retzius, as a
Bindegewebes’ was lauded and received with great approval child, accompanied him on excursions in the countryside,
both nationally and internationally. Reviews extolled admi- collecting specimens.[9–11]
ration, and congratulatory letters flowed from colleagues Retzius studied medicine in Uppsala, later Stockholm.
abroad. The book won the prestigious Montyon Prize, He earned his doctorate at the University of Lund, and
awarded by the French Academy of Sciences, the equiva- docent in anatomy at the Karolinska Institute. His travels
lent of a Nobel Prize. Even today, these two volumes are of during various periods as a child with his parents, and later
great value in the neurosciences, especially in microneuro- between 1862 and 1873 to France, Germany, Belgium and
surgery.[7,8] The anatomic details are exquisite, and are pro- Switzerland surely augmented his knowledge, expanded
claimed as refined and notable works of art.[13–16] his scientific vista, and influenced his personality.
“Die Gestalt des Membranösen Gehörorgans des In 1877, a personal, extraordinary Professorship in
Menschen” and “Das Gehörorgan der Wirbelthiere” were Histology was created for him at Karolinska, and in 1889,
colossal undertakings involving diligent observation of at the age of 47, a full Professor of Anatomy.
ears from numerous species, earnest attention to detail of
Retzius was prodigious in his research and publica-
illustrations that he drew himself, and altogether a strenu-
tions. He possessed an insatiable curiosity not only for
ous proposition (Figures 4).[5,6]
anatomy and the sciences, but also for all the art forms in
Retzius possessed a keen sense of observation endow- their broadest sense. We can assume that an irresistible
ing him with the capacity to examine the most minute fea- urge drove him to write and publish in order to share with
tures of his anatomic specimens. Despite the limitations of others (scientists and researchers), to educate the public,
the light microscope, available during his time, he detect- and to relate his travel and other experiences.
ed details that others overlooked or failed to notice.
Between 1890 and 1914 he published, in German, 18
To prepare a perfect specimen of the inner ear is a beautifully bound volumes, “Biologische Untersuchungen,
complex procedure, in addition to the arduousness of Neue Folge” (Research in Biology, New Sequel). A golden
observing the detail under the microscope and producing
an accurate drawing. Retzius made refinements to his
microscope technique, which resulted in remarkably
sharper images that he then drew. Occasionally the find-
ings astonished, and could not be confirmed until the
advent of the electron microscope.
Checking galley proofs, Retzius was meticulous. He was
particularly demanding of the lithographers and copper
engraver (some copper engravings are included in the
book), checking and insisting on refinement of the most
subtle details. Experts today bestow glowing admiration for
the accurate drawings of the ear and labyrinth. They are
considered the pinnacle of his entire scientific productivity.
As was his custom, Retzius selected quality paper and
binding, and a folio format for his volumes, and employed
Figure 4. A drawing of the membranous labyrinth of a 6 month old
the very best lithographers and engravers. This policy
human fetus showing both the vestibular and the auditory sensory
resulted in two very expensive books few could afford to receptors with innervating nerves. Retzius MG. Die Gestalt des mem-
purchase. Without his wife’s financial support, completion branösen Gehörorgans des Menschen. Stockholm: Centraltryckeriet;
and publication of the hearing organ books would have 1882.[5]

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 Gustaf Retzius – a glimpse into his lifetime achievements and into the fabric of his character 81

Figure 5. Superb drawing of Anders Retzius gyrus, right side. Gustaf Figure 6. Outstanding photograph of the left insular region demon-
Retzius observed these small previously unlabeled bulges, and named strating an exceptionally precise and clear opening of the Sylvian fissure
this structure Anders Retzius gyrus in homage to his father, famed sci- on a cadaver brain – an incredible accomplishment by Gustaf Retzius.[17]
entist and exceptional teacher of human anatomy.[17]

frieze adorns the edges of each volume, ruby red empha- Retzius’ investigations on the microscopic structure of
sizes the gold lettering of the titles, and altogether accords nerve endings, their sheaths and sensory nerve endings, in
the books a flavor of distinction. A 19th edition was pub- a wide variety of invertebrates and vertebrates, using his
lished posthumously in 1921. Each subject was studied, simple microscope, were valuable in creating the funda-
investigated, and documented with clarity and attention to mentals for later validation of the neuron doctrine. Retzius
detail, resulting in scholarly books of superior quality: “Das endorsed the neuron theory, among other scientists of his
Menschenhirn”[17] (The Human Brain, studies in macro- time. Camille Golgi and Retzius became acquainted and
scopic morphology, and includes the study of brains from corresponded from time to time. Their communications
human fetuses) 1896, “Das Affenhirn in bildliche related to their research became more intense following a
Darstellung”[18] (The brain of Apes-illustrated, a compara-
meeting in Stockholm, when Golgi and Ramon y Cajal
tive macroscopic study of numerous brains from all ape
were awarded the Nobel Prize in 1906 for their studies on
species) 1906, and other no less impressive studies: sper-
the structure of the nervous system.[9]
matozoa, cell structure, cell division, structure of different
sensory organs (e.g. eye) and macroscopic anatomy.[19,20] From 1872, with Axel Key, pathologist, he wrote “Ur
Retzius was the only contributor, the editor, and usually car this forsknong” which comprised popular science arti-
the draughtsman, also bearer of the costs (Figures 5–7). cles for the general public.

Figure 7. Radiating branches of the middle cerebral artery in an embryo cadaver brain, prepared by Retzius.[17]

Anatomy • Volume 10 / Issue 1 / April 2016

82 Yaflargil MG, Yaflargil DCH

His writings on the natural sciences includes 127 titles; teller and the magical and focused demeanors of the lis-
biographies (including of prominent scientists) 50 titles, teners. They stayed long, even though they understood
travel sketches 24 titles, poems and literary translations, not a word.
political essays and a variety of other literary renderings. Following intense preparations for the hearing organ
Retzius admitted to limited discernment of music’s intri- books, Retzius was advised to suspend his research for a
cate mosaic, but was inspired to compose two cantatas, while, although he continued to teach histology. In 1884,
both of which were performed in Stockholm. during this period of rest, Anna and Retzius purchased the
In 1876, Retzius married Anna Wilhelmina Hierta. newspaper Aftonbladet, founded by Anna’s father. The
They became acquainted after her father, Lars Hierta, circulation had declined and Retzius launched into
died, when she, her mother and sister approached improving the content, boosting the image of the newspa-
Retzius for advice. The family was wealthy and held an per and increasing circulation. He was the editor and
eminent position in the community. Lars Hierta was a wrote articles on a variety of topics, themes and affairs of
successful businessman and politician, and one of his interest.
projects was the founding of the newspaper Aftonbladet. During these years at Aftonbladet 1884 to 1907,
The family’s wish was to establish a memorial in the Retzius maintained his interest in the developments in
name of Lars Hierta. Retzius aspired to creating an insti- neuroanatomy, and undertook research in the field. Thus,
tution similar to the Smithsonian, and readily agreed to in 1888 the Stockholm Biological Society was formed with
become involved. the purpose of publishing results and meeting regularly.
The friendship between Anna and Retzius blossomed The journal, “Biologiska Föreningens Förhandlingar”
and they were married in November 1876. Their honey- (The Transactions of the Biological Society), was financed
moon of six months was spent on the French Riviera, and by Retzius, and distributed in Sweden and abroad. Many
in Rome, Naples, Capri, Bellagio and Venice; walking, of the papers were in German. Retzius, ever dynamic, was
painting, visiting museums and meeting scientists; a pleas- the most frequent lecturer at meetings, and the most pro-
ing and delightful tour. lific writer for the journal. After four years it was discon-
Anna was a very energetic lady and pursued her own tinued.
projects. Before marriage she introduced handicrafts into In 1872 Retzius, with the assistance of his sister
elementary schools because she felt there should be some Elisabet (Betty), published translations of some of the
kind of respite from ‘brain’ activities. She organized after poems by the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Retzius trans-
school recreation centers for children 7 to 14 years of age lated various publications into Swedish, and Burns, at
to prevent them roaming the streets until their parents first, appears an out-of-the-ordinary choice, because
returned home from the factories. She read foreign many of Burns’ poems are written in the Lallans or
newspapers and translated articles on school, teaching, Lowland Scots dialect of Ayrshire, and are written down
hygiene, cookery and handicrafts. When Retzius decided just as people spoke. In any language other than this
to leave his positon at Karolinska in 1890, to continue his dialect, the ‘music’ and rhythm of Burns’ poems and
research unhindered by student obligations and faculty songs are lost. Nonetheless, Burns has been translated
commitments, through Anna, his financial security was into many languages, no doubt due to his themes of
assured. brotherhood, love and loss, distaste for hypocrisy and
Anna accompanied Retzius on all his travels and in cant, and aversion for class system, and because of his
1889 they toured Egypt for three months, visiting the candid and uncomplicated language. It is reasonable to
ancient cities. The main purpose of the journey was to presume that all of these aspects which are intertwined in
later write articles for the general public, to increase Burns’ writings, and which reveal his life philosophy,
knowledge of Egyptian culture and to collect specimens; appealed to Retzius.[21]
brains and crania for the anatomy museum at Karolinska, Another episode of note, exemplifying Retzius’ princi-
and ethnographic artifacts for the ethnology department ples, concerns August Strindberg. Feminism, equal rights
of the natural history museum. Among other items, one for women, the church, religion and morals were topics
hundred Proto-Egyptian crania, at 3 piastras each, were debated intensely at this time, especially during the 1880s.
carefully packed into crates at their hotel in Luxor. On Strindberg had published a collection of short stories on
almost every trip Retzius collected. On one excursion he these themes, “Giftas” (Married), for which he was accused
even packed his microscope. In Cairo, the couple wished of blasphemy and was tried in Stockholm. Retzius, as edi-
to experience the nightlife. Their dragoman escorted tor of Aftonbladet, wrote a stirring editorial the day before
them to a café where they became enthralled by the story- the trial titled “En Samvetssak” (A Matter of Conscience),

Anatomy • Volume 10 / Issue 1 / April 2016

 Gustaf Retzius – a glimpse into his lifetime achievements and into the fabric of his character 83

expounding and disparaging the antique dogmas of the Acknowledgements

church. According to general opinion, the editorial was The authors thank David Murray R. N. for his guidance
instrumental in securing Strindberg’s acquittal. A shy on Robert Burns.
Strindberg appeared unannounced at the Aftonbladet
office to convey his thanks to Retzius. Interesting to note References
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_Photograph_by_Elliott_%26_Fry,_1908._Wellcome_L0013126.
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As mentioned previously, he presented copies of “Studien
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and “Menchliches Gehörorgan” to colleagues at home and 5. Retzius MG. Die Gestalt des membranösen Gehörorgans des
abroad. He donated money to many good causes, and also Menschen. Stockholm: Centraltryckeriet; 1882.
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before marriage, when his salary was little. histologische Studien. Band I. Das Gehörorgan der Fische und
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der Säugethiere. Stockholm: Samson Wallin; 1881–1884.
at the printers all manuscripts and illustrations of
7. Yaflargil MG. Microneurosurgery. Vol. I. Stuttgart: Thieme; 1984.
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thy for this loss. Retzius is said to have replied, “What is 8. Yaflargil MG. Microneurosurgery. Vol. IVB. Stuttgart: Thieme;
that, compared to the human lives that have been lost in this 1996. p. 74–6.
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Anatomy • Volume 10 / Issue 1 / April 2016

84 Yaflargil MG, Yaflargil DCH

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Online available at: Correspondence to: M. Gazi Yaflargil, MD

[Link] Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine,
doi:10.2399/ana.15.040 Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Turkey
QR code:
Phone: +90 216 578 42 72
e-mail: dianne9182@[Link]
Conflict of interest statement: No conflicts declared.

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achievements and into the fabric of his character. Anatomy 2016;10(1):78–84.

Anatomy • Volume 10 / Issue 1 / April 2016