The Romanticization of Tuberculosis in the 19th Century

In the 19th century, tuberculosis was often romanticized due to its

Tuberculosis and Beauty Standards

During this time, the effects of tuberculosis, such as the pallor, flush of the cheeks, and bright eyes, mirrored the beauty standards of the day. The victim's delicate and frail appearance was found fashionable. It was seen as an elegant illness, with the notion of dying gracefully in the arms of a loved one contributing to its allure.

The Poetic Geniuses

The illness adorned many romantic poets and was romanticized to an extent due to their association with the disease. Notably, John Keats is a prominent example. His own illness and the beauty of his poetry enhanced the perception of tuberculosis as a romantic and poetic affliction. The image of Keats as painted by Joseph Severn, showing him bedridden, further fueled the romantic portrayal.

Tuberculosis and Artistic Genius

The notion that tuberculosis was a sign of artistic genius was prevalent in the 19th century. It was often viewed as a deeply poetic disease, and it's difficult for something so associated with poetry to avoid romanticization. The illness was seen as a form of intense and passionate expression, making its victims appear interesting and intriguing.

The Illusion of Romantic Tuberculosis

Many literary and operatic depictions of tuberculosis contributed to this romanticization. Lord Byron, for instance, desired to die of tuberculosis so that women would remark on how interesting he looked while dying. The fevered imagery of tuberculosis

was often associated with a fierce, other-worldly passion, which would consume one's earthly form. This ethereal quality was further emphasized by the association with death and heaven, giving victims an almost angelic quality in the eyes of many.

Children's Literature and 'Fallen Women'

The romanticization took different forms. In children's literature, tuberculosis was often portrayed as a saintly, angelic child quietly dying with great patience and acceptance, which was seen as deeply romantic. However, this depiction could be seen as overly idealized and unrealistic.

In the context of 'fallen women', tuberculosis was sometimes depicted as a way to 'redeem' a woman. This idea, as seen in operas like La Traviata, contributed to the complex and sometimes painful perceptions of the illness, with the idea that a woman who contracted tuberculosis could be redeemed through her illness.

In conclusion, the romanticization of tuberculosis in the 19th century was a complex and multifaceted phenomenon influenced by literary and artistic depictions, societal beauty standards, and cultural attitudes towards death and illness.