Fans wish to learn what happened to Franz at the end of The Empress Season 2. The newest and second season of the German historical drama is set only a couple of years after the events of Season 1 and follows Empress Elisabeth’s motherhood and the increasingly tense relationships between Austria and Italian countries.
So, did Franz die on the battlefield in Season 2? Why did he join the battlefield in the first place? Here are all your questions answered.
Did Franz die on the battlefield in The Empress Season 2?
Whether Franz died on the battlefield in The Empress Season 2 is unknown. This is because his final fate was not shown. He was last seen departing for battle against the Kingdom of Piedmont.
However, as per historical records, Franz would survive the battle and return to Austria. He had passed away in his palace, Schonbrunn, at the old age of 86 after contracting pneumonia.
After Franz left for battle, his mother, Sophie, became upset and angry and blamed Elisabeth for his departure. However, Elizabeth chose to comfort her. Before departing, Franz had put Elisabeth and Sophie in charge of the Austrian Empire until his son Rudolf became old enough to take over the throne. Franz’s decision upset his brother Maximilian, who left with his wife Charlotte.
Why did Franz join the battlefield in The Empress Season 2?
Franz decided to join the battlefield in The Empress Season 2 because he was emotionally affected by the deaths and injuries of countless Austrian soldiers. This made him feel an obligation to lead his soldiers directly on the battlefield. He also decided to do so because the Kingdom of Piedmont, whom he had declared war on, wanted to annex one of the regions under his rule, Lombardy-Venetia.
For much of the second season, Franz opposed war and favored peace. He was also pressured by the weight of his responsibilities, as he desired a simple life as a loving father and husband.
The two seasons of The Empress are currently streaming on Netflix.