King Charles VI of France believed he was made of glass.

1393

He feared he would shatter, refused to be touched and reportedly had iron rods sewn into his clothes for protection.

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The event

• Bal des Ardents1393 · Paris. Charles VI and five courtiers dressed as "wild men" in costumes of linen and pitch. A torch set them ablaze; four died, and the king was saved by the Duchess of Berry, who smothered the flames with her skirts.

14th century

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