Circus artist Elvira Madigan and married army officer Sixten Sparre, unable to be together in their society, decided to elope. They hoped to start a new life but soon faced financial difficulties and societal condemnation. Realising there was no way out, they chose death over separation. In a Danish forest, the couple had a final picnic, after which Sixten shot Elvira and himself. Their tragic story became a symbol of romantic suicide and impossible love.
Merchant's grace
