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Armande BejartFrench actress
Country:
 France |
Content:
- Early Life and Uncertain Origins
- Possible Paternity Dispute
- Debut and Success with Molière's Troupe
- Physical Appearance and Stage Presence
- Marriage to Molière
- Alleged Infidelities
- Theatrical Legacy after Molière's Death
- Roles in Molière's Plays
- - Célimène in "The Misanthrope"
Early Life and Uncertain Origins
Armande Béjart was a French actress and the youngest member of the renowned Béjart theatrical family. Her exact date of birth is unknown, with some records suggesting 1642 and others stating 1645.
Possible Paternity Dispute
Armande's origins have long been a subject of debate. In a 1643 will, a "baptized infant girl" was listed among the children of Joseph Béjart, the royal inspector of forests and waterways in Languedoc, and his wife, Marie Hervé-Béjart. However, there is speculation that Armande was actually the illegitimate daughter of Molière and Joseph Béjart's eldest daughter, Madeleine Béjart.
Debut and Success with Molière's Troupe
In 1653, Armande made her debut in Lyon under the name Mademoiselle Menou in the Molière-Dufresne troupe. She initially played children's roles in Racine's tragedies. In 1662, she became prominent in Molière's comedies, taking on lead roles such as Léonor in "The School for Husbands" and Orphise in "Les Fâcheux."
Physical Appearance and Stage Presence
Contemporary accounts described Armande as unassuming in figure but charming overall. Despite small eyes and a large, inexpressive mouth, she exuded grace and a distinctive voice. She sang with great taste in both French and Italian.
Marriage to Molière
On February 20, 1662, Armande married Molière. The union sparked rumors and scandalous accusations, claiming that Molière was marrying his own daughter. King Louis XIV, however, supported the couple and became the godfather of their first child.
Alleged Infidelities
Despite Molière's devotion, Armande is believed to have had numerous extramarital affairs. She reportedly engaged with wealthy commoners and noblemen, including the Duke of Lauzun, the Count of Guiche, and even the young actor Michel Baron.
Theatrical Legacy after Molière's Death
After Molière's death, Armande Béjart and actor Lagrange preserved his works. She continued to perform, playing in the Hôtel Guénégaud and the Comédie-Française. In 1677, she married actor Isaac François Guérin d'Estriche.
Roles in Molière's Plays
Armande played roles specifically written for her by Molière, including:
- Célimène in "The Misanthrope"
- Elmire in "Tartuffe"- Henriette in "Les Femmes Savantes"
Later Career and Retirement
Armande retired from the stage on October 14, 1694, receiving a pension of 1000 livres. She died on November 30, 1700, at the age of fifty-five. Her theatrical legacy continues to be celebrated as one of the most influential French actresses of her time.
