The Causes of George Friedrich Handel’s Death

George Friedrich Handel, one of the prominent figures of baroque music, struggled with numerous health issues in the later stages of his life, which ultimately contributed to his early death. The composer became overweight and found it increasingly difficult to control his appetite. According to American music historian David Hunter, the deterioration of Handel’s health affected not only his personal life but also his musical career.

Throughout his life, Handel traveled extensively across Europe, and this habit resulted in enormous dining expenses. The baroque composer’s health steadily declined over the twenty years, yet he spent this prolific period writing several significant musical works. Hunter shared his insights into the composer’s life during a new exhibition at the Handel Museum in London, which explores the connections between music and health.

Handel’s Health Issues and Eating Habits

George Friedrich Handel, despite his unparalleled musical talent, faced severe health problems in the later stages of his life. The composer’s obesity was clearly linked to his inability to control his appetite. According to American music historian David Hunter, Handel’s eating habits dramatically changed during the last two decades of the baroque composer’s life.

Based on accounts from Handel’s friends and acquaintances, the composer often struggled with overeating and was famously known among his friends for being unable to tolerate simple foods. For instance, he once left his friend Joseph Goupy because he offered him too commonplace a meal. Goupy memorably captured Handel’s overweight figure in an engraving, which also showcased the composer’s humorous side.

Handel’s lifestyle not only affected his health but also his musical output. Overeating and health issues, such as paralysis and blindness, profoundly impacted his creative process. The composer began expressing human suffering and inner struggles in his music, marking a new direction in the world of baroque music.

Suspicions of Poisoning and Its Consequences

Poisonings, particularly lead poisoning, were serious issues in the 18th century, and there is suspicion that they contributed to the decline of Handel’s health. The composer’s lifestyle and the wines he frequently consumed, often stored in lead-contaminated vessels, were potential sources of poisoning.

Symptoms of poisoning include confusion, excessive tearing and salivation, and skin blisters. In Handel’s case, the episodes of paralysis and gradually worsening vision were concerning signs indicating that the composer was struggling with severe poisoning. The periodic blindness he experienced in 1751 was particularly telling, as he noted on a score that he could not continue working due to his poor eyesight.

According to Hunter’s analysis, Handel’s greatest works as a composer, such as Messiah, were born from expressions of suffering and pain. The composer engaged with the depths of suffering, which, as a consequence of lead poisoning, also reflected a kind of inner struggle. Thus, Handel sought not only to create music but also to achieve a deeper understanding of human existence.

Lead Poisoning in the 18th Century and Handel’s Legacy

Lead poisoning was a common phenomenon in the 18th century, causing serious health issues among people. The disease was not well understood, and the methods of treatment were rudimentary. Foods like wine and apples were often contaminated, and polluted water could lead to severe intestinal cramps.

In Handel’s case, wigs may have played a role as well, since the powder used for wigs also contained lead. The composer could not have his hair subjected to chemical analysis, as he regularly shaved his head, making it difficult to determine the exact source.

Handel lived in London, where he created numerous musical works until his death. He passed away at the age of 74 and was buried in Westminster Abbey. However, his legacy did not fade into obscurity; the Handel Museum preserves the composer’s memory, showcasing the life and work of one of the greatest figures in baroque music for future generations. Handel’s legacy lives on today, and his music continues to inspire both musicians and audiences alike, illuminating the deep connection between human suffering and creation.