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Wolfram Setz is a very prominent figure who left behind a remarkable legacy as a dedicated historian, editor, translator, and essayist.
Through his diligent work, Setz brought to light important voices and stories that had long been forgotten, ensuring that queer history could be properly acknowledged and understood.
His dedication to justice, knowledge, and community has left an indelible mark on the world of LGBT studies and beyond.
Wolfram Setz’s Biography
Wolfram Setz born on 7 July 1941 was a highly-respected German historian, editor, translator, and essayist.
Setz’s contributions to LGBT studies, as well as his passion to unearthing the writings of neglected authors, have altered our understanding of gay history.
Setz, who was born in Stralsund, studied at the University of Cologne and afterwards at the University of Tübingen. He received his Ph.D. in 1975, with a dissertation on Lorenzo Valla’s debunking of the Donation of Constantine as a fabrication. Setz’s talents as a historian were highlighted in this scholarly study, which foretold his future contributions to the subject.
Setz began working as an editor at Monumenta Germaniae Historica in Munich after finishing his dissertation. During his time there, he was instrumental in conserving and distributing important historical knowledge.
Setz’s rigorous approach and dedication to scholarly precision won him a reputation as an accomplished editor.
In addition to his work in academic publications, Setz played key editorial responsibilities in a number of projects focused at exploring and promoting LGBT literature and history.
Most notably, he was the editor of the Bibliothek Rose Winkel, a revolutionary series of gay literary reprints, cultural studies, and historical works that encompassed 80 volumes.
Setz’s influence went beyond the written word. In addition, in 1986, he was a founding member of the German LGBT organiZation Bundesverband Homosexualität. Setz was a member of the organization’s board of directors for several years until its dissolution in 1997.
His commitment to furthering LGBT rights and increasing understanding of gay history made an indelible mark on the German queer community.
Setz wrote various books that provided depth and subtlety to our understanding of LGBT history, literature, and society during his lifetime. His books, published by companies such as Verlag Rosa Winkel and Männerschwarm Verlag, highlighted his many interests and expertise.
Setz’s writings ranged from delving into the complicated subjects of homosexuality in ancient Greek literature to putting light on the realities of queer people in Victorian culture.
Setz was interviewed by Deutschlandfunk in 2021 in honour of his considerable contributions to the field. Setz used this conversation to offer his ideas and experiences, strengthening his position as a recognised researcher and historian.
Wolfram Setz Cause Of Death
Wolfram Setz tragically died on August 14, 2023, after a protracted illness. However, the actual sickness is unknown as at the time this article was written.
