Carlo Gesualdo: The Musical Murderer
Carlo Gesualdo, Prince of Venosa and Count of Conza, was an Italian nobleman, lutenist and composer … oh, and murderer. Probably born in Venosa in 1566, little is known about is early life despite that he had a single-minded devotion to music from an early age, showing little interest in anything else. In addition to the lute, he also played the harpsichord and guitar.
In 1586 he married his first cousin, Maria, however, within two years she had begun an affair with the Duke of Andria. This remained secret from her husband, even though the existence of the affair was well-known elsewhere. Unfortunately, in October 1590, the lovers took insufficient precautions to prevent their discovery. Alleging to have gone away on a hunting trip Gesualdo instead snuck back to the palace to find his wife and her lover in flagrante delicto. He murdered them both in their bed and left their mutilated bodies in front of the palace for all to see. Being a nobleman he was immune to prosecution, though not to revenge.
Details of the murders are not lacking. It is apparent that Gesualdo had help from his servants; however, Gesualdo certainly stabbed Maria multiple times, shouting as he did, “she’s not dead yet!” The Duke of Andria was found slaughtered by numerous deep sword wounds, as well as a shot to the head. When he was found, he was dressed in Maria’s night dress. The murders were widely publicised but nothing was done to apprehend Gesualdo.
According to some, Gesualdo also murdered his infant son. After looking into his eyes and doubting his paternity he “swung the infant around in his cradle until the breath left his body”. Another source indicates that he murdered his father-in-law after he sought revenge, however, contemporary documentation for either of these alleged murders is lacking.
Late in life Gesualdo suffered from depression, perhaps induced by guilt. He had himself beaten daily by servants, keeping a special servant whose duty it was to beat him “at stool”, and he engaged in a relentless, and fruitless, correspondence with a Cardinal to obtain relics of his uncle Carlo, with which he hoped would heal his mental disorder.
Gesualdo died in isolation. One 20th-century biographer has suggested Gesualdo may have been murdered by his second wife. He was extremely successful as a musician, carving a distinctive style, and if that should interest you, you can read more here.
[Fabulous recommendation by tierradentro]