Published in 1827, this two-volume work by the playwright and biographer James Boaden (1762–1839) is a sprightly portrayal of the acclaimed actress Sarah Siddons (1755–1831). Closely collaborating with his subject, Boaden (whose memoir of Dorothy Jordan is also reissued in this series) was able to establish himself as an authoritative biographer, preferred over others for his intellect and wealth of anecdotes from a lifetime spent within the theatrical world. Arguably the greatest tragic actress of her age, Siddons broke new ground in the reactions she provoked in audiences and in the social legitimisation of the English stage. Containing vivid descriptions of performances, this work details the acting style of Siddons and the inner workings of the theatrical community. Volume 1 covers her career up to her triumphant return to Drury Lane in 1782. Volume 2 covers her most illustrious period, including royal patronage in the mid-1780s, her celebrated Lady Macbeth and her retirement in 1812.
Contents
Volume 1: Dedication; Introduction; 1. Female biography; 2. Mr Siddons, his talents; 3. Garrick retired but not willing to be forgotten; 4. The author's plan in his chapters; 5. Season of 1777–8; 6. Henderson not eminently successful at Drury Lane; 7. Return to Mrs Siddons; 8. Lady Craven; 9. The season of 1782–3 at Drury Lane Theatre; 10. Mrs Siddons repeats Isabella eight times; 11. Belvidera examined. Volume 2: 12. Produce of the benefit; 13. The royal patronage of Mrs Siddons; 14. Consequences of such great popularity; 15. Preliminary observations; 16. Absolute attraction of Mrs Siddons; 17. Season of 1786–7; 18. Importance to Mrs Siddons of her brother's management; 19. Mrs Siddons quits London for a season; 20. Kotzebue adds two characters to the list of Mrs Siddons; 21. Illness of Mrs Siddons.
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