To Hel and Back: An Early IAS Mathematician and the Shaping of her Legacy

Mathematician Hel Braun, Member (1947–1948) in the School of Mathematics, left a remarkable legacy, despite facing formidable challenges. While Braun's mathematical contributions remain important, her story has been mostly forgotten. In this talk, mathematician Ellen Eischen, von Neumann Fellow in the School of Mathematics, will discuss her research on Braun and share some surprising discoveries. Among other things, she will explain how archival documents, especially correspondence between Braun and other mathematicians (hence, the double meaning of this talk's title) helped her to piece together Braun's inspiring story and correct some striking misconceptions. Mathematics is often viewed as standing apart from messy human concerns. Attendees will hear how, on the contrary, nonmathematical factors helped shape a mathematical legacy. Themes will include immigration, gender, politics, unrequited love, and how we make sense of the past.

This talk is for anyone curious about how these themes influence the formation of knowledge even in pure mathematics. No mathematical expertise will be assumed.