Book Review: ‘The Other Side Of Einstien’ Reveals The Dark Side Of Renown Physicist Albert Einstien

There has been a lot written about the scientific genius of Albert Einstein but seldom a book comes that goes beyond the known. Reintroducing icons that reader already knew.

According to the Pittsborough Post-Gazette, the new novel "The Other Einstein" written by Marie Benedict has thrown significant light on Albert Einstein's darker side which has always been overshadowed by his glorious career in academia. The book has been written on the basis of the letters between Einstein and his first wife Mileva Maric, around whom the main plot revolves.

Out of the many letters reproduced in the novel, one reveals the celebrated scientist as old fashioned rather narrow-minded. It brings forth the plethora of marital terms and conditions enlisted by Einstein for Maric, disobedience to which might lead to him leaving her. It includes demands of housekeeping, instructing her not to speak to him other than on public outings and various other commands. It has given rise to speculations regarding the real character of this man who is widely celebrated for his wisdom.

According to Psychology Today, the book actually is a portrayal of the women of early 20th century and their suppressions. Keeping Maric in the forefront, the book talks about the male dominance in that era and how a few of them vied against the prescribed routine.

Many are of the opinion that the book is a work of fiction and it is not always based on the truth. The author puts in some of her own feelings to make it look little biased against men. According to the book, Minerva Maric being a brilliant physicist herself has managed to play down Einstein's worldly reputation. "Theirs becomes a partnership of the mind and of the heart, but there might not be room for more than one genius in a marriage," says Dr. Jenni Ogden, objecting to the negative portrayal of Albert Einstein's character in the book.

The book is considered more of a period piece depicting Einstein and Maric in a way preferred by the novelist herself, portraying Einstein as "manipulative, narcissist and abusive". It can not be considered a biography as it relies heavily on the fictional side of the protagonist's life and author's own perception and opinion.

TagsEinstein, Books, REVIEW, The dark side of Einstein, Literature