L’Art du théâtre

treatise by Bernhardt

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June 18, 2026

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L'Art du théâtre (The Art of the Theatre) is a treatise by the renowned French actress Sarah Bernhardt, published in 1923. In this work, Bernhardt shares her insights on acting, emphasizing the crucial role of voice training. She believed that the voice was the key to developing a dramatic character.1

Bernhardt, celebrated as the greatest French actress of the late 19th century, had a distinguished career marked by international success and a commanding stage presence. Her treatise offers a glimpse into her philosophy of performance, highlighting the importance of vocal technique in conveying emotion and character.1

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Sarah Bernhardt
International success
Bernhardt’s treatise on acting, L’Art du théâtre (1923; The Art of the Theatre), is revealing in its sections on voice training: the actress had always considered voice as the key to dramatic character.
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Bernhardt’s treatise on acting, L’Art du théâtre (1923; The Art of the Theatre), is revealing in its sections on voice training: the actress had always considered voice as the key to dramatic character.
Read More