Fine Fever

This chapter focuses on with Josefine von Kahler, described as “the most ardent amorous attachment” in Ernst Kantorowicz's life. “Fine” (pronounced “feenah”) was born Josefine Sobotka of Jewish parents in 1889. In 1884, her father had moved with his family from Bohemia to Vienna, where he cofounded a successful malt manufacturing business. Fine married Erich Kahler in November 1912. However, the marriage was not carnal and Erich insisted from the start that they lead independent lives. Kantorowicz met Fine in Berlin in the autumn of 1918 through his sister and brother-in-law. However, after May 1920, the couple saw each other rarely and ended their relationship in 1921.