The Real Story of Emily Rose: An Exorcism in the 1970s

Emily Rose is a fictional character inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, a young German woman who underwent a series of exorcisms in the 1970s. Anneliese's story has gained widespread attention, culminating in the film The Exorcism of Emily Rose. Let's delve into the truth behind these events and the life of Anneliese Michel.

Background and Early Days

Anneliese Michel was born on September 21, 1952, in Germany. She led a normal and religiously nurtured life until 1968 when she began experiencing severe shaking and lost the ability to call out for help. These events led to a diagnosis of "Grand Mal" epilepsy by a neurologist at the Psychiatric Clinic Wurzburg.

Mental Health Struggles and Occurrences

Despite the medical diagnosis, Anneliese’s condition continued to deteriorate. She started seeing devilish grimaces during her prayers, and voices began to manifest, warning her of hell. The doctors were unable to provide any help, and Anneliese's faith in medical treatment waned. In 1973, her parents sought help from various pastors to request an exorcism, but their requests were initially rejected.

The Road to Exorcism

In the summer of 1974, a significant change came when Pastor Ernst Alt requested permission from the Bishop of Wurzburg for an exorcism. The Bishop rejected the request, but suggested that Anneliese should continue living a religious lifestyle. Nonetheless, her condition worsened. She began insulting and beating her family members, refusing to eat, and engaging in self-mutilation.

The Exorcism Process

On September 25, 1975, a major exorcism was performed by Father Arnold Renz and Pastor Ernst Alt. The exorcism was based on the "Rituale Romanum," a valid canon law from the 17th century. Throughout the weeks and months, Anneliese endured several exorcism sessions where she experienced extreme physical and mental distress. Her condition deteriorated further, and she was sometimes held down or even chained during the sessions.

Final Days and Consequences

By June 30, 1976, Anneliese was suffering from pneumonia and was emaciated, running a high fever. She eventually passed away on July 1, 1976. The death investigation revealed that she starved herself to death, and a commission later declared that Anneliese was not possessed. However, the exorcists and her parents were found guilty of manslaughter due to negligence and omitting first aid.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following the final exorcism rite, Anneliese’s body was exhumed after eleven and a half years. It was confirmed that her body had decayed as expected. Today, her grave remains a place of pilgrimage for those who believe in her struggles and her fight against supernatural powers. An updated version of the Rituale Romanum, designed for the upcoming millennium, was presented to the world in 1999, reflecting the evolving nature of exorcism practices.

Emily Rose's story, while fictional, is deeply rooted in the tragic life and unexplained events surrounding Anneliese Michel. This case continues to captivate and intrigue believers and skeptics alike, highlighting the complex interplay of mental health, faith, and supernatural beliefs in modern society.