It is pointed out that the generalized Bethe formula for the total lev
el density encompasses the standard Bethe formula and the constant tem
perature formula as limiting cases. It is shown that the generalized B
ethe formula provides an excellent fit to the results of combinatorial
calculations in the region of doubly closed shell nucleus (208)pb whe
re the standard Bethe formula fails. The new parameter xi associated w
ith the generalized Bethe formula shows a systematic behavior with dis
tance from double shell closure.