Key Insights
Why did the Beast of Gévaudan return after being supposedly killed by François Antoine?
François Antoine's kill was likely not the true beast, leading to its return.
Why did King Louis XV accept François Antoine's claim of killing the beast?
Louis XV accepted it to provide a resolution and maintain his reputation.
Why did the autopsy of François Antoine's kill raise doubts about his claim?
The autopsy found sheep bones in the stomach, contrary to the beast's human-only diet.
Why did Jean Chastel join the hunt for the beast in 1767?
Chastel aimed to prove François Antoine wrong and clear his family's name.
Why did King Louis XV dismiss Jean Chastel's claim of killing the beast?
Louis XV wanted to maintain the narrative that the beast was already killed by François Antoine.
Why did some people suspect Antoine Chastel of being the beast?
Antoine's physical appearance and eyewitness accounts of the beast's human-like features raised suspicions.
Why did the autopsy of the beast killed by Jean Chastel confirm it was the true beast?
The autopsy found a human shoulder bone in the beast's stomach, matching its known diet.
Why might King Louis XV have been involved in a cover-up regarding the beast?
An escaped hyena from his menagerie could have caused the attacks, leading to a need for cover-up.
Why did the Beast of Gévaudan's attacks align with periods of famine and war?
Food scarcity during these times made predators like wolves bolder and more aggressive.
Chapters
- The beast returned after being supposedly killed by King Louis XV's gunbearer, Francois Antoine.
- Rumors suggest the beast could be a werewolf or a serial killer in disguise.
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