Schnitzler took inspiration from two real-life events and incorporated them into the play - the capture of Vienna by Napoleon on 13 May 1809, and a failed assassination attempt on the emperor by the German Friedrich Staps in October 1809[6] Schnitzler took inspiration for his portrayal of Viennese citizens from Caroline Pilcher's book Memories from my life.

The 21-year-old Army officer Medardus Klähr, Agathe's brother, meets Princess Helene of Valois at the pair's funeral.

Helene then promises her cousin Bertrand, the Marquis of Valois, that she will marry him if he kills Medardus in a duel.

Medardus wishes to get to revenge on Helene for the death of his sister after spending a "few wonderful nights" with her.

Medardus, when he learns of Helene's intention to marry, volunteers for a sortie from the fortress of Vienna against the advancing Napoleonic troops.

Helene, who is still keen to see the Valois take the French throne, seeks to get Medardus to support her interests.

On the eve of the peace treaty which Napoleon has dictated to the Austrians, there is a parade in the courtyard of Schönbrunn Palace, with some Viennese present.

Napoleon wishes to free him; after all, Medardus has killed a woman who sought to bring her family onto his throne.

Medardus reacts to the surprising offer by telling Napoleon that he really wished to kill the emperor himself.