8 Famous People From History Who Were Surprisingly Socially Awkward

6. Beethoven

Beethoven was arguably the most influential composer in the transition between the Classical and Romantic eras. He was especially remarkable in his ability to compose music even after he became deaf, which may have been caused by his unusual habit of sticking his head in cold water to stay alert. Beethoven's deafness meant that he avoided conversation and could not conduct his own music towards the end of his life. Most of his social awkwardness, however, grew from his disdain for authority and social rank. He would often stop performances if he could hear aristocrats talking amongst themselves, and would respond rudely if anyone asked him to perform without prior notice during parties. Eventually, the Archduke Rudolph decreed that normal court etiquette did not apply in Beethoven's case.