Skagen is Denmark's northernmost town, located 41 km north of Frederikshavn. Settlement began as a fishing village during Middle Ages. First documented as Skaffuen in 1284, meaning narrow, high point of land
Born in Geneva in 1712, Rousseau fled to France at age 16. Baroness de Warens transformed him from stammering apprentice to philosopher. Became successful in Paris, writing both music and prose
Born in 1828 in Skien, Norway to wealthy merchant parents. Left school at 15 to become pharmacist's apprentice. Had affair with Else Sophie Jensdatter Birkedalen at 18. First play "The Burial Mound" staged in 1850