28 May

Archduchess Sophie of Bavaria passed away on 28 May 1872. Born a Bavarian princess, she married Archduke Francis Charles, the second son of Emperor Francis II. As Ferdinand, the hydrocephalic and epileptic heir apparent was unable to produce an heir, Sophie’s first-born son, Francis Joseph, was next in line to the throne from the moment of his birth.

In popular history, Sophie has often been portrayed as a strong-willed, power-hungry woman—almost a wicked stepmother out of a fairy tale. However, given the people around her and the political circumstances she faced, this reputation seems unjust. She was certainly a strong character, especially in contrast to her weak and indecisive husband. Her political foresight became evident during the revolution of 1848, when she played a decisive role in transferring power from the incapable Ferdinand to her young son.

Sophie’s image as a cold, domineering figure largely stems from her famously difficult relationship with her daughter-in-law, Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). That portrayal was cemented by the 1950s romantic film trilogy Sissi, in which Sophie appears as an overbearing antagonist. More recent portrayals, however, have offered a more nuanced and balanced view.