His best friend almost killed him in a duel

In 1704 George Frideric Hande fought a deadly duel with contemporary Johann Mattheson. The two composers were both young men at the time (Handel was 19 and Mattheson was 23) and got into an argument during a performance at the Hamburg Opera.

The incident occurred during the premiere of Cleopatra, one of Mattheson's operas. Mattheson had to perform as a character in the opera (Anthony, a tenor role) as well as conduct from the harpsichord that night. Scholars believe Mattheson asked Handel to fill in as conductor while he sang. Mattheson returned to the conductor's seat at the harpsichord after his performance on stage. But Handel refused to budge.

It is said that the two fought over who should be in charge of the orchestra; Mattheson, as composer, wanted control, but Handel refused to relinquish the position. Mattheson suggested they take their argument outside. So, right outside the theater, the irate young composers drew their swords and engaged in a duel. Although no detailed account of the duel exists, one widely held belief is that Handel was nearly killed by a sword thrust from Mattheson. The thrust was aimed directly at his heart, but it was deflected by a large metal button on his coat, saving Handel's life. As the duel came to an end, the two composers reconciled and became lifelong friends. They kept in touch even after Handel moved to London to finish out his legendary career.