People having fits of apoplexy was a very common plot device in classic literature. Today, it’s more commonly known as a stroke, which just doesn’t sound as romantic.

The controversial comedian's set was rude enough to cause apoplexy among the more conservative audience members.  

In 1846 Wakefield, exhausted with labour, was struck down by apoplexy, and spent more than a year in complete retirement, writing during his gradual recovery his Art of Colonization.

He died of apoplexy on the 9th of July 1746.

In January or February 169 Verus died at Altinum, apparently of apoplexy, though some ventured to say that he was poisoned by Aurelius.