The Anneliese Michel Exorcism

Anneliese Michel was a 23-year-old German woman whose death during an extended exorcism ritual led to the conviction of her parents and the priests involved. Her case remains one of the most documented and controversial possessions in modern history.

The Beginning

Anneliese began experiencing symptoms in 1968 when she was sixteen. She suffered seizures and was diagnosed with temporal lobe epilepsy. Despite medication, her condition worsened. She began seeing demonic faces during prayers. She heard voices telling her she was damned.

The Escalation

By 1973, Anneliese had become severely depressed. She developed an aversion to religious objects. She could not tolerate crucifixes or holy water. She began eating insects, drinking her own urine, and hiding under tables while barking like a dog for days.

The Exorcism

In 1975, Bishop Josef Stangl authorized an exorcism. Fathers Arnold Renz and Ernst Alt performed 67 sessions over ten months. Anneliese identified herself as containing Lucifer, Cain, Judas, Nero, and Hitler, among other demons. Audio recordings captured her speaking in voices.

The Death

Anneliese died on July 1, 1976, of malnutrition and dehydration. She weighed only 68 pounds. She had refused food, believing her suffering would atone for wayward souls. Her parents and both priests were convicted of negligent homicide.

The Evidence

Over 40 audio recordings document the exorcisms. Anneliese’s voice changes dramatically between sessions. She speaks in Latin and languages she never studied. The recordings remain among the most compelling evidence of genuine possession ever recorded.

Assessment

The Anneliese Michel case exists at the intersection of mental illness and the supernatural. Medical professionals see untreated psychiatric disease. Religious authorities see demonic possession. Her grave has become a pilgrimage site. The truth remains contested, but the tragedy is undeniable.