On September 10, 1898 Europe was shocked by the news: Empress Elisabeth of Austria assassinated! Elisabeth's tragic death was the end of an emotional, troubled and often misunderstood life of a remarkable person. It was a contributing factor in the creation of a myth which Elisabeth had cultivated during her lifetime by her unconventional lifestyle. Bearing little resemblance to the historical Elisabeth, just how did this myth arise? This book sets out in search of the true historical persona aloof of legend and cliche -- Elisabeth's life is examined in detail.