In 1649, the renowned French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes was invited to the court of Queen Christina of Sweden. Christina, known for her intellectual curiosity and desire to transform Stockholm into a cultural hub, sought Descartes' expertise in philosophy. Despite his initial reluctance, Descartes accepted the position, moving to the cold and unfamiliar climate of Sweden. Queen Christina, a dedicated scholar, insisted on early morning lessons at 5 AM, a time she believed was most conducive to learning. This rigorous schedule required Descartes to traverse the harsh Swedish winter mornings to reach the palace, a routine that took a toll on his health.
Within a few months of enduring these conditions, Descartes' health began to deteriorate. The combination of the early hours, the severe cold, and the physical strain of his daily walks led to him contracting pneumonia. Despite receiving medical attention, Descartes' condition worsened, and he passed away on February 11, 1650, just a few months after his arrival in Sweden. His death marked a tragic end to his brief tenure as a tutor to the queen, highlighting the harsh realities of life in the 17th century and the extreme dedication of both teacher and student to the pursuit of knowledge.