The Evolution of the Actress Essay Example

From the 16th century to Sarah Bernhardt, the evolution of the actress is outlined. The fame and notoriety Sarah Bernhardt gained in film and on the French stage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries played a significant role in making acting a respected profession for women in European society.

Introduction: Sarah Bernhardt had a significant impact on the reputation of actresses. This section provides a brief overview of how female actors were viewed in society during different centuries. It also discusses the perceptions of female actresses prior to Bernhardt's era. The text then explores the role of women in theatre during the 16th Century, including their portrayal in Shakespearean plays. It mentions that women's roles were typically performed by young boys during this time. Additionally, it touches upon Commedia dell'Arte, an Italian form of improvised drama characterized by masked performanc