Napoleon never received a formal personality disorder diagnosis, largely because it’s impossible to diagnose an individual who died centuries ago. However, some historians and mental health professionals have pointed out behaviors that could resemble narcissistic personality disorder. Today, people often use the term “Napoleon complex” to describe domineering or overcompensating behavior, though it isn’t a clinical diagnosis.

Some historians speculate that a possible personality disorder could have fueled Napoleon Bonaparte’s military victories. Over the centuries, many people have discussed serious questions such as “What did Napoleon die of?” and “What might have happened if he’d lived?”

In this article, we explore the history of narcissistic personality disorder by looking at Napoleon’s life and recorded personality traits, as well as the possible connection between his actions and the symptoms we associate with NPD.

Introduction to Napoleon Bonaparte: Providing Background on the Historical Figure

Napoleon Bonaparte is a well-known figure, but depending on the listener, he is a beloved hero or an outrageous villain. Napoleon has become the main character in countless songs and stories. From his relatively humble birth on the island of Corsica, Napoleon rose to become one of the most popular military leaders in French history, eventually taking over the country as the Emperor of the French. He went from a self-crowned ruler to a conqueror who marched soldiers across Europe and even into Russia, at a time when military personnel mostly traveled on foot.

His incredible accomplishments and grandiose history have left psychologists fascinated by the possibility that Napoleon may have had a personality disorder that drove him to the heights he reached prior to death. And, contrary to popular mythology surrounding his death, he died of — mostly — natural causes. His advanced stomach cancer killed him, along with an overdose of medication we now know to be poisonous. But doctors didn’t deliberately cut his life short, and modern medical experts say the difference would have been months, not years.

Speculations and Diagnoses: Discussing Possible Personality Disorders Napoleon Exhibited

Any time a historical figure enjoys unprecedented success, people are curious about how they did it. When exploring Napoleon’s personal history, some psychologists believe narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) may have driven his success. Psychologists don’t diagnose patients who’ve already died, but many have speculated he had NPD based on his well-documented actions and tactics.

When clinicians diagnose NPD, they look for a persistent pattern of grandiosity, a need for constant external validation and a lack of empathy for others. When looking at some traits Napoleon appeared to have exhibited, several aspects of his personality and actions align with this potential diagnosis. Some examples include:

  • Self-coronation as emperor. Perhaps one of the most iconic examples of Napoleon’s grandiosity was his self-coronation as Emperor of the French in 1804. Traditionally, the Pope placed the crown on the head of the next monarch, but the impatient Napoleon chose to put the crown on his own head.
  • Relentless pursuit of military conquests. Napoleon’s numerous military campaigns across Europe reflected his insatiable need for power and admiration. His ambition knew no bounds, and he consistently sought to expand his empire and secure his place in history. This relentless pursuit of conquest and recognition aligns with NPD’s characteristic of seeking admiration and dominance.
  • Frequent rewriting of history. Napoleon regularly changed the historical record of his accomplishments. He would edit documents and generally sought to put himself in the most favorable light possible. This revisionism reflects his desire to maintain an idealized image and control the perception of his legacy.

Traits and Behaviors: Examining Personality Characteristics Consistent With NPD

In general, Napoleon was known for his over-the-top personality. Some of his personal characteristics that may have indicated NPD include:

  • Grandiosity and self-importance. Napoleon was known for his insatiable ambition and a desire for power that extended far beyond the borders of France. When he declared himself Emperor, he took a title larger than king and continued to award himself with various accolades and honorifics to further aggrandize his legacy.
  • Lack of empathy. A single-minded focus on achieving goals marked Napoleon’s military campaigns, regardless of the human cost.

At the far end of the spectrum, some clinicians describe a more severe presentation known as malignant narcissism, which combines narcissistic traits with antisocial and aggressive behavior.

Historical Context: What Did Napoleon Die of, and What Role Might NPD Have Played?

Your personality impacts most of your decisions. If you don’t enjoy the limelight, you’re unlikely to join a talent competition or pursue a career on stage. Napoleon’s personality and the tumultuous times surrounding his birth all likely impacted his actions. He was born amid the French Revolution. Napoleon rose to power while the country grappled with major, often violent, social and political change. It’s possible the extraordinary circumstances Napoleon was in exacerbated NPD personality traits, including grandiosity and a need for admiration. But what did Napoleon die of?

He ultimately died of stomach cancer, aggravated by poisoning from the treatment used. Both likely had little or nothing to do with his personality or Napoleon’s mental health. However, his grand accomplishments and political position mean historians and enthusiasts continue to debate possible alternative theories, even hundreds of years after his death.

Modern Interpretations: Reflecting on the Ongoing Debates and Professional Insights Into Napoleon’s Personality

So, did Napoleon have a personality disorder? The question continues to be up for debate among historians and psychologists. Applying modern diagnostic criteria to historical figures is always tricky and requires a deep understanding of the social norms of the time.

While modern psychology provides a lens through which we can evaluate reports of Napoleon’s behavior, no final diagnosis is possible without the ability to directly interview the man himself.

The question of Napoleon’s personality disorder remains a captivating enigma. While there’s persuasive evidence supporting the presence of narcissistic traits in his character, there’s no way to arrive at a certain diagnosis. He was a towering figure with a historical legacy, which the era of his birth may have both expanded and made possible. Understanding Napoleon’s personality offers insight not only into his individual psychology but also into the broader dynamics of the early 19th century.

Frequently Asked Questions About Napoleon’s Personality



Napoleon never received a formal diagnosis, and it’s impossible to diagnose someone who died centuries ago. Some historians and psychologists have pointed to behaviors that resemble narcissistic personality disorder, including grandiosity, a need for admiration and a lack of empathy.


Napoleon died of advanced stomach cancer, aggravated by an overdose of a medication now known to be poisonous. Modern medical experts say the treatment likely shortened his life by months, not years.


“Napoleon complex” is an informal term, not a clinical diagnosis. People use it to describe domineering or overcompensating behavior, often in connection with short stature, though Napoleon himself was likely around average height for his era.


Clinicians look for a persistent pattern of grandiosity, a need for constant external validation and a lack of empathy for others. Only a licensed professional can diagnose NPD.


Yes. Personality disorders can co-occur with substance use disorder, and the two often need to be treated together. Sunlight Recovery treats co-occurring personality disorders as part of dual-diagnosis care during addiction treatment.

Personality disorders often co-occur with substance use disorder. At Sunlight Recovery, we treat personality disorders as part of dual-diagnosis care during addiction treatment, not as standalone mental health care. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use and narcissistic traits, call our 24/7 admissions line at (855) 625-6684 or reach out online. Every call is confidential, with no obligation.