Phransua-Jozef Talma French actor-reformer Date of Birth: 16.01.1763 Country: France

1. Biography of François-Joseph Talma
2. A Reformer of the French Theater
3. A Revolutionary Artist
4. Theater in Times of Adversity
5. Personal Life and Legacy

Biography of François-Joseph Talma

François-Joseph Talma (1763-1826) was a renowned French actor and reformer of the theater. He received a excellent education, but his father, a dentist, wanted him to follow in his footsteps. Talma briefly practiced dentistry, but his true passion was acting. During his leisure time, he performed on small stages and made his successful debut at the Comédie-Française in 1787 in Voltaire's play "Mahomet." He was soon accepted into the troupe of the theater as a shareholder.

A Reformer of the French Theater

Talma was a key figure in reforming the French theater. He advocated for historically accurate costumes, insisting that the attire of ancient and foreign characters on stage should be faithfully recreated from ancient statues, coins, and medals. Despite facing mockery and criticism, Talma remained steadfast in his belief and even wrote an article titled "Reflections on Lekain and Theatrical Art" to defend his views. He also emphasized the importance of truthful and authentic delivery, condemning excessive and artificial declamation.

A Revolutionary Artist

As the revolutionary era approached, Talma found himself caught up in the changing political climate. He took on the role of King Charles IX in the play "Charles IX or the School of Kings," which protested against abuses of power. His portrayal of the remorseful monarch earned him recognition for his talent. However, this success also led to conflicts within the theater troupe, as many actors who were accustomed to the previous royal regime did not sympathize with the new ideas. After the play's 30th performance, it was removed from the repertoire, sparking a strong reaction. Talma even dueled with another actor, Node, over the matter. Eventually, Talma and several other actors left the theater and established their own company at the Palais Royal on Rue de Richelieu.

Theater in Times of Adversity

During the turbulent years of reaction and the Napoleonic era, Talma faced challenges. He had to publicly justify his lack of sympathy for the Reign of Terror and navigate his relationship with Napoleon Bonaparte. Talma had known Napoleon when he was a poor officer and had loaned him money. However, he also knew how to show respect to the emperor, earning his constant favor. Even after the restoration, Talma remained a beloved artist.

Personal Life and Legacy

Talma was married twice. His first wife, Julie Caro, was an intelligent and wealthy aristocrat who supported liberal ideas and admired the young actor's talent. Her salon was frequented by literary and political figures of the time. However, they eventually divorced, and Talma remarried a young actress named Vanhove. During a performance of the play "Death of Caesar" in Erfurt, Germany, Vanhove fainted out of fear when Talma had to recite revolutionary verses in front of assembled monarchs. Talma, who remained apolitical in his intimate life, stood aside from politics, even when receiving praise and rewards from King Louis XVIII.

Talma's excellent stage presence, attractive appearance, and remarkably pleasant and flexible voice made him a standout performer. He is considered a transformative figure in French theater, not only in terms of staging but also in his delivery of lines, which he sought to make realistic and free from monotonous declamation. Talma's most notable roles included Cynna, Nero, Orestes, Achilles, Oedipus, Herod, Caesar, Manlius, Charles IX, Leicester, Othello, and Hamlet (in adaptations by Ducis).

Despite facing adversity and being ostracized by the clergy, Talma's influence on the French theater was profound. His dedication to artistic integrity and his contributions to the development of acting techniques continue to be recognized and celebrated to this day.