Ridley Scott’s portrayal of Napoleon and Josephine’s relationship in his movie includes several inaccuracies, particularly regarding their divorce. Despite facing criticism from viewers and receiving mixed critical ratings, the film is acknowledged for its epic battle scenes, emphasis on spectacle, and the commendable performances of its cast. It is also praised as an old-fashioned period drama skillfully balancing humor with serious bloodshed.
However, the movie has been a source of contention due to its lack of sincerity in accurately depicting historical events. While some creative liberties enhance the narrative cohesively, others are conspicuous, detracting from the impact of the ambitious historical drama. Notably, Napoleon’s representation of the timeline of the former French Emperor’s romance with Josephine is marred by such discrepancies.
In reality, Napoleon and Josephine were married in 1804 after Napoleon proposed to her in January 1796 and they tied the knot in March of the same year. Although Napoleon was thrilled about the union, his family members expressed dissatisfaction, surprised that he chose to marry a widow with two children. Throughout their marriage, the couple exchanged numerous romantic letters during Napoleon’s military campaigns, but they also navigated multiple extramarital affairs. Contrary to the portrayal in Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon,” a pivotal moment in their relationship occurred when Napoleon realized Josephine could not conceive a child.
After contemplating divorce for an extended period, Napoleon informed Josephine in 1809 of his decision to separate and seek a wife capable of providing him with an heir. Despite the heartbreak caused by Napoleon’s choice, Josephine acquiesced, leading to their divorce ceremony in January 1810. Prior to the divorce, an official annulment took place in December 1809, during which both expressed gratitude and conveyed the heaviness of their decision. Napoleon, as cited by Napoleon.org, expressed his desire for Josephine to “retain the rank and title of crowned empress” and regard him “as her best and dearest friend.”
Ridley Scott’s film, “Napoleon,” deviates from the historical timeline, portraying the titular character’s marriage to Josephine between scenes set in 1795 and 1798. This inconsistency significantly alters the movie’s portrayal of Napoleon’s romance with Josephine. Furthermore, the film takes creative liberties in depicting the divorce proceedings, although it accurately places the official divorce in 1910. Notably, the movie’s representation of Napoleon publicly slapping Josephine for mourning their relationship is a fictional addition that did not occur in historical reality.