Mozart died at the age of 35 due to health complications, including a possible bacterial infection, renal failure, and dental issues.
Mozart never had robust health; even as a child, he suffered from numerous illnesses: repeated anginas, flus, and rheumatism. These recurring issues indicate that he had quite fragile health, probably worsened by the exhausting tours imposed on him from a young age. As an adult, things did not improve; he regularly suffered from fevers, infections, joint pain, and chronic digestive problems. At the time, of course, there were no antibiotics or effective treatments: it goes without saying that each illness could quickly take a turn for the worse. This constant weakness gradually drained him and certainly made him more vulnerable to the infection or illness that ultimately cost him his life.
Several theories circulate about the exact reasons for Mozart's premature death, but no absolute certainty exists to this day. The most popular thesis is that of acute rheumatic fever, a common infectious complication at the time, which could severely impact the heart and kidneys. Another possibility suggests a bacterial infection leading to severe renal failure, corresponding to several symptoms described by those close to him in his final days. Some opinions also lean towards mercury poisoning or other poorly dosed medications, which were commonly administered during that period. Finally, the idea of a chronic progressive illness like tuberculosis or a latent autoimmune disorder frequently emerges in recent debates. Nevertheless, the lack of clear evidence and numerous historical contradictions make it difficult to draw any definitive conclusions.
Mozart clearly had an intense lifestyle and he worked a lot, often without counting his hours. He frequently maintained a frantic pace between his concerts, his rapid compositions, and his frequent exhausting travels. At that time, it was common to work until exhaustion (burnout before it was a thing, really). Moreover, Mozart would often stay up very late, regularly miss sleep, and he enjoyed well-watered festive evenings. All of this mixed chronic fatigue, repeated alcohol consumption, and prolonged periods of intense stress. This could seriously weaken his immune and cardiovascular systems, thereby facilitating the onset of serious illnesses or acute infections.
The sudden death of Mozart sparked more or less crazy rumors and theories. The most popular is the theory of poisoning, with his supposed culprit being his colleague and rival Antonio Salieri. However, this has been completely dismissed by experts: there is no concrete evidence to support this theory. This myth mainly spread because Salieri had professional conflicts with Mozart, yet nothing proves that they were mortal enemies. Other versions speak of Masonic revenge or even a downright far-fetched political conspiracy. Many fantasized about the genius who died so young and imagined outlandish scenarios to explain such a brutal end. Ultimately, these stories resemble urban legends more than serious historical facts.
Recent research, based on medical analyses and a careful study of contemporary testimonies, often points to a severe infection or renal dysfunction. The main hypothesis discussed today is acute kidney failure resulting from a possible glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the kidneys. Some experts believe that Mozart may have suffered from a complication related to rheumatic fever, a common bacterial disease in his time. By studying the symptoms described by his close ones, including significant swelling and a high fever, many today lean towards this inflammatory or infectious pathway. The scenario of intentional poisoning is now clearly dismissed by the vast majority of historians and doctors. Finally, some researchers also mention the possible influence of a vitamin D deficiency, resulting from a lack of sun exposure, which may have exacerbated his overall frailty.
The composer often worked at night, regularly exhausting his health in the process. He could compose an entire work in just a few days, thus putting a severe strain on his body.
The popular myth that Mozart was poisoned by his rival Antonio Salieri has been widely propagated by the film 'Amadeus', but has never been historically proven or scientifically supported.
Despite his death at just 35 years old, Mozart produced over 600 works, demonstrating an incredible intensity of creative work in only about thirty years.
In 1791, the year of his death, Mozart was working on his famous 'Requiem,' which remained unfinished. Ironically, many have seen in this somber and funereal composition an unconscious premonition of his own impending death.
No, this theory is widely regarded as a myth, popularized by the film 'Amadeus'. Several historical and scientific studies have found no tangible evidence to support this hypothesis.
His lifestyle may have contributed to his physical weakness: intense work schedule, lack of sleep, irregular eating habits, and constant stress related to his career and unstable finances.
The most credible hypotheses today focus on chronic kidney disease, a streptococcal infection that has progressed to rheumatic fever, or acute septicemia.
Unfortunately, the exact remains of Mozart remain unknown. His burial in a mass grave prevents thorough analyses with modern techniques, leaving the question partly unresolved.
Yes, Mozart is believed to have suffered from recurring health problems throughout his life, particularly frequent respiratory and kidney infections, which may have gradually weakened his body.
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