Death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Mozart drawing Doris Stock 1789

Death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

The Death of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart on December 5, 1791, in Vienna, Austria, has been a subject of much speculation and mystery. At the age of 35, the prolific composer of the Classical era left the world, leaving behind a legacy that would influence the course of Western music for centuries. The circumstances surrounding his untimely demise have been the subject of numerous theories, ranging from natural causes to more sinister explanations.

Causes of Death

The exact cause of Mozart's death has been a matter of historical debate. Official records from the time of his death cite "hitziges Frieselfieber" (severe miliary fever) as the cause, a term that does not directly correspond to modern medical diagnoses. Over the years, researchers have proposed various causes, including rheumatic fever, trichinosis, mercury poisoning, and kidney failure. However, the lack of concrete evidence has made it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.

Conspiracy Theories

Several conspiracy theories have also emerged regarding Mozart's death. One of the most persistent rumors is that he was poisoned by his rival, composer Antonio Salieri. This theory, popularized by the play and film Amadeus, has been widely discredited by historians. Other theories suggest that Mozart was a victim of a Masonic conspiracy, though these claims are also considered speculative.

Final Days

Mozart's final days were marked by illness and financial difficulties. Despite his health deteriorating rapidly, he continued to work on his Requiem, a piece that has become shrouded in myth due to its incomplete state at the time of his death. Mozart reportedly believed he was writing the Requiem for himself, a belief that has added to the mystique surrounding his final work.

Legacy

Mozart's death marked the end of an era but also the beginning of his immortal legacy. His extensive body of work, including over 600 compositions, has had a profound impact on the development of Western music. His operas, symphonies, and chamber music continue to be celebrated for their beauty, complexity, and emotional depth.

Burial

Mozart was buried in a common grave at the St. Marx Cemetery in Vienna, in accordance with the customs of the time. The exact location of his grave remains unknown, further contributing to the mystery surrounding his death.

In Popular Culture

The death of Mozart has been a popular subject in literature, film, and music. It has inspired numerous works that explore the genius of Mozart and the mysteries of his final days. The fascination with his death reflects the enduring impact of his music and the intrigue of his life story.