Born: 7 August 1560, Hungary
Died: 21 August 1614
Country most active: Slovakia
Also known as: Báthori Erzsébet, Alžbeta Bátoriová
The following bio was written by Emma Rosen, author of On This Day She Made History: 366 Days With Women Who Shaped the World and This Day In Human Ingenuity & Discovery: 366 Days of Scientific Milestones with Women in the Spotlight, and has been republished with permission.
In 1612, Elizabeth Báthory (Báthori Erzsébet), a Hungarian noblewoman, was arrested for alleged crimes. Between 1590 and 1610, she and four of her servants were accused of torturing and killing numerous girls and women. While some argue that these charges were part of a witch-hunt, others point to over 300 individuals’ testimonies, physical evidence, and the discovery of mutilated and imprisoned girls during her arrest as evidence supporting the accusations.
Báthory’s arrest occurred on New Year’s Eve in 1612 when György Thurzó, the Palatine of Hungary, apprehended her and four of her servants at Csejte Castle. Although some claim she was caught in the act of torture, it is generally believed that she was arrested while having dinner. Her arrest and subsequent investigation were prompted by complaints from a Lutheran minister, István Magyari, and widespread rumors of her gruesome actions.
After her arrest, Báthory was confined to her castle until her death at the age of 54. Her confinement included debates over her fate, initially considering sending her to a nunnery but later opting for strict house arrest. Báthory had written a will in 1610, distributing her possessions among her children. She passed away in 1614.
The veracity of the accusations against Elizabeth Báthory remains a subject of debate. Some argue she may have been a victim of political conspiracy due to her substantial wealth and land ownership in Hungary. However, numerous testimonies and physical evidence collected during the investigation have also been cited as supporting the charges against her. Regardless, the legend of Elizabeth Báthory, known as “The Blood Countess,” continues to be a source of fascination and inspiration in folklore and popular culture.