History under the Scalpel — Season 1, Episode 2: Descartes, autopsie d'un génie
Documentary • 30 min • 2 seasons, 5 episodes
Episode synopsis
In a display case at the Musée de l'Homme, a skull covered with Latin inscriptions has rested since the 19th century. It is thought to be that of René Descartes. Separated and preserved apart upon the French philosopher's death, this skull, which became a relic, would pass from hand to hand over the centuries. Will Philippe Charlier succeed in authenticating it thanks to the innovative techniques used in forensic medicine?
About History under the Scalpel
"L'histoire au scalpel" (History under the Scalpel) is a French documentary series, notably broadcast on France 5 and Histoire TV, in which the forensic doctor and anthropologist Philippe Charlier uses modern scientific methods to investigate historical mysteries. By examining the relics and bodies of historical figures such as Napoleon, Louis XIII, Louis XIV, or Saint Louis, he seeks to elucidate the causes of their death, the diseases they suffered from, or to authenticate objects.