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The medical history and death of Mozart
1St George's Hospital Medical School, London.
Journal of the Royal College of Physicians of London
|October 1, 1991
Abstract:
The medical history and final illness of Mozart are reviewed in the light of information provided by the letters of the composer and his family. Early in his life there is no doubt that he suffered from a series of infective diseases which were common in 18th century Europe, and died of an acute epidemic illness. There is no clinical evidence for the widespread belief that his last years were dogged by chronic disease and that he died in renal failure.
Insights
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart likely died from an acute epidemic illness, not chronic disease or renal failure. Historical records and family letters suggest a history of common 18th-century infectious diseases.
Area of Science:
- Medical History
- Historical Epidemiology
- Musicology
Background:
- Mozart's death in 1791 has been subject to speculation.
- Previous theories suggested chronic illness or renal failure as causes of death.
- Historical context of 18th-century European diseases is crucial.