Arthur Harden's groundbreaking work in the field of alcoholic fermentation has led to a greater understanding of metabolic processes, including the formation of lactic acid in muscles and the ossification of tissue. Apart from his discoveries in biochemistry, he distinguished himself as a Nobel laureate, professor, and contributor of scholarship to the field.

Born on October 12, 1865, Harden was the third of nine children--and the only son--of Manchester businessman Albert Tyas Harden and Eliza MacAlister Harden. His family's puritanical leanings and nonconformist attitude toward social conventions, such as the celebration of Christmas and interest in the theatre, remained an influence throughout Harden's life. Despite his austere upbringing, however, he was an accomplished skater and avid gardener, as well as a great fan of Charles Dickens and Victorian literature in general. He attended private school beginning at age seven, and then studied at Tattersall College between 1876 and 1881 in Staffordshire, reaching...