Niels Ludvig Westergaard
1815–1878 (age 63)
Biography
Niels Ludvig Westergaard devoted his academic life to teaching and the careful study of languages, sharing his deep knowledge of linguistics and oriental literature with generations of university students. His scholarly work helped to bring distant cultures into conversation with Danish intellectual life, and he remained a patient mentor to those navigating complex texts and histories.
His classroom was known for its rigor and humanity, while his writings reflected a thoughtful search for understanding across disciplines. Westergaard’s resting place at Assistens Cemetery marks the spot where many now pause in gratitude for a life spent in service to education and cultural exchange.