Why did Voltaire return to Paris in 1778?

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Life-sized plaster sculpture Seated Voltaire by Jean-Antoine Houdon shows Voltaire draped in a robe, seated with a thoughtful expression and a ribbon crown, against a dark background. — Voltaire *Voltaire*, plaster sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon; in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, California.

Voltaire returned to Paris in 1778 primarily because of his dedication to the theater. He wished to personally direct the rehearsals for his play Irène.1

His arrival on February 10, 1778, marked his first visit to the city in 28 years and was met with a triumphant reception. During his stay, he was celebrated by the public and the Académie, and he was famously crowned in his box during a performance of Irène. Unfortunately, the excitement of his return took a severe toll on his health, and he passed away in Paris on May 30, 1778.1