Sarah Bernhardt, born Rosine Bernardt in Paris, France on October 22, 1844, was an actress who would become one of the most famous and revered performers of her time. Her father's identity was unknown, and her stepfather abandoned the family when she was just a young girl. Despite these early hardships, Sarah showed a natural talent for acting from a young age.
Sarah made her theatrical debut in 1862 in a production of Racine's "Iphigenie." From there, she quickly rose to prominence in the theatre world, becoming known for her dramatic performances and emotional range. She appeared in plays by Ibsen, Shakespeare, Racine, Moliere, and Scribe, showcasing her versatility and talent.
Not content with just conquering the stage, Sarah also made a successful foray into the world of film. In 1911, she starred in a film adaptation of Dumas fils' "Camille," further solidifying her status as a versatile and talented performer.
Sarah was known for her eccentricities, one of which was her habit of sleeping in a coffin. She claimed that the reminder of mortality helped her to get into the mindset of the characters she portrayed, allowing her to deliver even more powerful and emotional performances.
Despite her professional success, Sarah's personal life was marked by tragedy and heartache. She was romantically interested in the brilliant inventor Nikola Tesla, but he rejected her advances, citing her as a distraction from his work.
Throughout her life, Sarah Bernhardt continued to push the boundaries of what was expected of women in the arts. She was a trailblazer in every sense of the word, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of performers.
When Sarah Bernhardt passed away in 1923, she left behind a legacy that endures to this day. Her performances on stage and screen continue to captivate audiences, and her influence can be seen in the work of countless actors and actresses who followed in her footsteps.