Acting philosophy Eleonora Duse

eleanora duse, in acting career.

duse famously cryptic regarding acting style. claimed not have technique of sort, , scorned @ efforts put art science. known had highly heterodox, religious philosophy of acting, seeking eliminate self , become characters portrayed. common misconception acting purely intuitive , spontaneous, in reality labored on craft.

her biographer, frances winwar, records duse wore little make-up but, ...made herself morally. in other words, allowed inner compulsions, grief , joys of characters use body medium expression, detriment of health.

over course of career, duse became well-known , respected assistance young actors , actresses during stages of careers. among diverse artistic geniuses acknowledged being inspired duse modern dance pioneer martha graham , imagist poetry pioneer amy lowell. great friends actress eva le gallienne, wrote biography.