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How was Voltaire received during his final return to Paris?
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Voltaire
Voltaire, plaster sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon; in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, California.
Voltaire’s final return to Paris in 1778 was a triumphant occasion. Having been absent from the city for 28 years, he arrived on February 10 with the primary intention of directing rehearsals for his play Irène.1
His reception was marked by immense public enthusiasm:
* Immediate Attention: The day after his arrival, more than 300 people visited him.1
* Academic Acclaim: On March 30, he was met with widespread acclamations when he visited the Académie.1
* Theatrical Honor: During a performance of Irène, he was crowned in his box before a delirious audience.1
Unfortunately, the intense excitement of this return took a severe toll on his health. He fell ill with uremia on May 18 and passed away on May 30, 1778.1