The Devils of Morzine

Between 1857 and 1862, the small alpine village of Morzine, France, experienced an epidemic of apparent demonic possession that affected over 120 people, primarily young women. The outbreak baffled authorities and has been studied by historians and psychologists ever since.

The Outbreak

The epidemic began in 1857 when young girls in the village began exhibiting strange symptoms: convulsions, speaking in strange voices, demonstrating superhuman strength, and claiming to be possessed by devils.

The possession spread rapidly through the community. Affected individuals would blaspheme, contort their bodies, and claim to see demons. The symptoms seemed contagious, with new cases appearing after contact with the possessed.

Medical Response

French authorities sent doctors to investigate. They concluded the affliction was a form of collective hysteria, not genuine possession. They recommended separating the affected individuals and avoiding religious exorcisms, which seemed to worsen symptoms.

The local population rejected medical explanations and continued to believe in demonic possession.

Religious Response

Exorcisms were performed but appeared to make the epidemic worse. Each exorcism attracted crowds and seemed to trigger new cases. The church eventually restricted exorcisms.

Resolution

The epidemic gradually subsided after 1862, possibly due to the combination of medical intervention and reduced attention. Affected individuals recovered without lasting effects.

Assessment

The Devils of Morzine is studied as an example of mass psychogenic illness. The combination of a close-knit community, religious beliefs, and social contagion created conditions for widespread hysterical symptoms that mimicked demonic possession.