What problems did Joseph Haydn face in his marriage?

Joseph Haydn’s marriage to Maria Anna Keller, which began in 1760, was marked by significant personal unhappiness and domestic discord. The union failed to produce children and did not provide the composer with a peaceful or supportive home environment.12

Key issues in their relationship included:

• Lack of Interest: His wife showed no understanding of or interest in his musical career.1
• Disrespect for his Work: Her disdain for his profession was so profound that she reportedly used his valuable musical manuscripts for practical household tasks, such as lining pastry pans or creating curl papers.1
• Extramarital Relations: Due to the lack of fulfillment in his marriage, Haydn was not immune to the attractions of other women and engaged in a long-term love affair with Luigia Polzelli, a young Italian mezzo-soprano employed at the Esterházy court.1