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Madeleine BejartFrench actress
Date of Birth: 08.01.1618
Country:  France |
Content:
- Madeleine Béjart: The Trailblazing Actress of the French Stage
- Literary and Theatrical Beginnings
- Illegitimate Daughter and Collaborative Venture
- Partnerships and Provincial Tours
- Family Ties and Rumors
- Return to Paris and Triumph
- Later Career and Legacy
Madeleine Béjart: The Trailblazing Actress of the French Stage
Early Life and FamilyBorn in Paris on January 8, 1618, Madeleine Béjart was the daughter of Joseph Béjart Sr. and Marie Hervé. She belonged to a family immersed in the world of theater, with her siblings Joseph, Louis, and Geneviève all involved in the profession.
Literary and Theatrical Beginnings
Madeleine received an exceptional education and possessed a literary talent. In 1636, her "Dying Hercules" was published, accompanied by a quatrain written by herself. Inspired by her siblings, she embarked on an acting career and found success on the stage of the Théâtre du Marais in Paris.
Illegitimate Daughter and Collaborative Venture
In 1638, Madeleine welcomed an illegitimate daughter, Françoise, with Gaston of Orléans' court chevalier, de Modena. Notably, on June 30, 1643, she co-founded the "Illustre Théâtre" alongside her brother Joseph and a young Molière.
Partnerships and Provincial Tours
After the "Illustre Théâtre" dissolved in 1645, Madeleine joined Charles Dufresne's troupe. In 1648, she reunited with her brothers and Molière, forming the "Troupe de Béjart." For several years, they traveled throughout western and southwestern France.
Family Ties and Rumors
In 1653, her younger sister Armande joined the troupe. Rumors persisted that Armande was actually Madeleine's daughter, possibly fathered by Molière, although these allegations were officially denied.
Return to Paris and Triumph
In 1658, the troupe returned to Paris, gaining royal patronage. In 1659, Madeleine achieved fame for her portrayal of Madlon in Molière's "Les Précieuses Ridicules."
Later Career and Legacy
As the years passed, Madeleine gradually relinquished leading roles to younger actresses like Thérèse du Parc, Madame Debrie, and Armande Béjart. She focused primarily on age-appropriate characters. In 1670, she retired from the stage and passed away on February 17, 1672, after a prolonged illness. Her will bequeathed the bulk of her estate to Armande Béjart.
Madeleine Béjart left an indelible mark on French theater. Her contributions as an actress, playwright, and founder of the "Illustre Théâtre" cemented her place as a pioneer in the field. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of performers and theater enthusiasts alike.
