The Empress is one of Netflix’s most talked-about period dramas. It is set in the mid-19th century and chronicles the dazzling as well as turbulent life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi.
Her romance with Emperor Franz Joseph, how she struggled to fit into the rigid Austrian court, and how she defied the royal conventions has captivated audiences completely.
But beneath all this lies the question: how much of the show is rooted in historical truth? The show does take creative liberties to make the drama binge-worthy. But many of its elements are inspired by real-life events. Thus, making it a fascinating mix of fact and fiction.
The show is inspired by the life of Elisabeth von Wittelsbach, a Bavarian duchess who married Emperor Franz Joseph I in 1854 and is considered one of history’s most fascinating royals. The Netflix show delivers a compelling retelling of her early years at the Viennese court. So, let’s uncover the true elements behind the story.
Disclaimer: The article contains spoilers for The Empress. Reader discretion is advised.
The Empress was inspired by the real Empress Elisabeth
Devrim Lingnau’s portrayal of Elisabeth in The Empress draws heavily from history. Elisabeth, or Sisi, was only 16 when she married Emperor Franz Joseph I. She was beautiful, free-spirited, and had a deep empathy for the common people. However, her life at the Viennese court wasn’t as glamorous as it might seem.
Elisabeth often dissented from court traditions. As a result, she clashed with her controlling mother-in-law, Archduchess Sophie. Her relationship with Franz faced challenges, too. The couple had four children, however, their firstborn, Sophie, died young because of an infection. Over time, the empress felt increasingly stifled by royal duties. She sought solace in travel which also meant leaving behind her husband and children.
The Netflix show captures Elisabeth’s rebellious essence. But dials up the romance and drama. It shows Franz and Elisabeth falling in love at first sight contrary to historical accounts that suggest their affection grew over time.
What’s true and what’s fiction?
Franz chose Elisabeth over her sister, Helene. This is historically accurate. However, their first meeting wasn’t the romantic woodland encounter depicted in the series. They first crossed paths years in Innsbruck when Elisabeth was a child.
The Netflix version shows Elisabeth’s struggles with court etiquette. It also shows her struggle with Archduchess Sophie’s dominance. All of which rings true. But some of Elisabeth’s habits, like gymnastics and smoking, did not make it into the show. Instead, her rebellious nature is portrayed through her non-conforming nature.
The Empress portrays the lead couple as head-over-heels in love. Well, at least at first. Reality, however, tells a different tale. After the wedding bells stopped ringing, their love story hit some sour notes.
Elisabeth quickly realized that her royal role wasn’t about romance. It was about producing an heir and staying out of politics. To make matters worse, she wasn’t even free to meet her husband whenever she felt like it. These royal restrictions put a major strain on their marriage.
Also read: What country is The Empress set in? The real-life empire that inspired it, explored
Sisi’s life beyond The Empress
Elisabeth’s real life was a blend of allure, tragedy, and rebellion. She was an accomplished equestrian and was admired for her beauty and style. However, her personal life was filled with heartbreak.
Her son, Crown Prince Rudolf, died in a tragic suicide in 1889 which deeply affected Elisabeth. After his demise, she only wore black and avoided public appearances. Her life ended tragically, in 1898 when she was assassinated by an Italian anarchist while boarding a ship in Geneva.
Catch The Empress streaming now on Netflix.
Also read - The Empress Season 2: Release date, plot, cast and more about historical drama series on Netflix
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