Johann Theobald Held

Jan Theobald Held (December 11, 1770 – June 20, 1851), also known as Johann Theobald Held, was a Bohemian medical doctor, educator, musician, and composer. He was noted for his theories on psychosis, and the links between psychology and environmental conditions. He served as the dean of Charles University, Prague, and was depicted in the novel F. L. Věk by Alois Jirásek.

Early life and education Jan was born in Třebechovice pod Orebem on December 11, 1770. His early education took place in the town of his birth, where he received training in singing and in instrumental performance. Before his father died, he had instructed Jan to pursue his fortune in a foreign country, so Held intended to follow his older brother to Poland. However, he was discouraged from doing so by the Partition of Poland. In 1813 he became head of the mental asylum there, working to reform patient treatment resulting in more humane care and conditions,

Later career He was elected dean of Charles University, Prague, on five occasions.