Bridgerton Season 4 Explores King George III's Tragic Health Condition
Bridgerton season four, part two, set for release on Netflix on February 26, features a harrowing storyline for Queen Charlotte as she grapples with her husband King George's debilitating illness. The series, which continues to captivate audiences with its Regency-era drama, sees Queen Charlotte portrayed by Golda Rosheuvel in a deeply emotional narrative. In a poignant scene, the Queen confesses her fear of isolation, expressing anxiety that without her confidante Lady Danbury, played by Adjoa Andoh, she would be unable to cope with the challenges of caring for the ailing monarch.
Historical Context of King George's Illness
King George III's condition, as depicted in Bridgerton, is rooted in actual historical events. The monarch, who reigned from 1760 to 1820, suffered from a recurring and ultimately permanent psychiatric disorder during his later years. While the exact diagnosis remains uncertain, medical professionals have long debated whether his symptoms align with bipolar disorder or a physiological ailment. In 1810, he experienced a final relapse, leading to his son, George, Prince of Wales, being appointed Prince Regent the following year. King George III passed away at the age of 81, making him the longest-lived and longest-reigning British monarch at that time.
The Porphyria Theory and Its Controversies
For much of the 20th century, it was widely believed that King George's illness was purely psychological. However, in 1966, a study proposed that his condition resulted from porphyria, a blood disease. This theory gained traction among scholars, and a 2005 analysis of hair samples from George III revealed high levels of arsenic, which could have triggered metabolic disorders like porphyria. This narrative was popularized in dramatizations such as Alan Bennett's play The Madness of George III and its film adaptation. Since 2010, however, this view has been contested, with recent research suggesting that his illness was indeed psychiatric, most likely bipolar disorder.
Modern Research and Linguistic Analysis
Researchers Dr. Peter Garrard and Dr. Vassiliki Rentoumi have examined King George's handwritten letters to analyze his language during manic episodes. Their findings, highlighted by the BBC, indicate that during periods of ill health, his writing became more intricate, imaginative, and vibrant, with frequent repetition. These characteristics are consistent with the manic phase of bipolar disorder, as seen in contemporary patients. Witness accounts from the time describe his "incessant loquacity" and episodes where he talked until foam ran from his mouth, sometimes requiring restraint to prevent harm.
Portrayal in Bridgerton and Queen Charlotte Prequel
Corey Mylchreest, who portrays King George in the prequel series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, shared insights into his approach to the role. He emphasized the responsibility of giving voice to the monarch, noting similarities between his own experiences and the weight of the crown. The prequel delves deeper into the Queen's heartbreaking history, with James Fleet having previously played the role in Bridgerton's earlier seasons. As fans eagerly await the release of season four, part two, the series continues to blend historical drama with emotional storytelling, shedding light on the personal struggles behind the royal facade.
