Mademoiselle Samary
Also known as: Mademoiselle Samary, Samary
Research Status: Moderate Last Updated: 2025-01-23 Diary Coverage: Up to 1880-10-22
Jeanne Samary (1857-1890) was a celebrated French actress at the Comédie-Française, known for her beauty, charm, and infectious laughter. She became one of the most popular actresses in Paris during the 1870s-1880s.
Marie compares herself to Mlle Samary in October 1880, saying "I am always very gay and very droll for others, I laugh as much as Mlle Samary of the Théâtre Français, but it's more a habit than a mask." This reveals that Samary was famous for her laughter and gaiety - qualities Marie felt she displayed outwardly even while suffering inwardly.
Notable facts:
- Renowned for her roles in comedies at the Comédie-Française
- Immortalized in several portraits by Auguste Renoir (1877-1878)
- Known for her vivacious personality and sparkling laugh
- Represented the charm and elegance of Parisian theatrical life
The comparison suggests Marie saw herself as performing cheerfulness while privately experiencing despair over her deteriorating health.
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