Ise Gropius' Diaries Reveal Bauhaus Life and Conflicts

The diaries of Ise Gropius, wife of Walter Gropius, offer a unique insight into life at the Bauhaus between 1924 and 1928. They recount conflicts with the municipal administration and internal quarrels among the Bauhaus members. Walter Gropius, known as "Mister Bauhaus" and arguably the most internationally influential architect of the 20th century, met journalist Ilse (later Ise) Frank in 1923 and married her quickly. She matched him in self-confidence, energy, and foresight, serving not only as wife and homemaker but also as secretary, office manager, PR agent, fundraiser, archivist, ghostwriter, and co-author. Her versatility in all things technically up to date—car, airplane, typewriter, radio, gramophone, and cinema—made her a prototypical "New Woman," whose image included home stories. The article is published in the current issue of Der Freitag.