“The Blood Countess” was called the most prolific female serial killer of all time, but researchers have a new theory

Elizabeth Báthory, known as “the Blood Countess,” was accused of being a prolific female serial killer who tortured and killed hundreds of young women in the 17th century. However, some researchers believe she may have been falsely accused due to her wealth and power as a noblewoman. Instead of a murderer, she may have been a subversive figure threatening the power structure of the time. The popular narrative of Báthory as a serial killer may be a result of historical bias against powerful women. A British author and academic, Annouchka Bayley, has challenged this narrative and hopes to provide a more just portrayal of Báthory’s story.