Cartoon, Augustus Harris, British actor and dramatist
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Cartoon, Augustus Harris, British actor and dramatist
Cartoon, Augustus Harris (1852-1896), British actor, dramatist and impresario. Why should that figure of Shakespeare be kept on the facade? Augustus Harris would look quite as well!
1883
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Media ID 14400914
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1883 Augustus Bryan Dramatist Entracte Harris Impresario Ladder Ladders Manager Shakespeare Egotism
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this 1883 cartoon by an unknown artist, we find British actor, dramatist, and impresario Augustus Harris (1852-1896) attempting to replace the iconic figure of Shakespeare on the facade of a theatre with his own likeness. Dressed in a top hat and holding a ladder, Harris's egotistical demeanor is on full display as he confidently gazes upwards, seemingly unfazed by the men below who are trying to stop him. The image of Shakespeare, with his quill in hand and a pile of plays at his feet, looks down disapprovingly at Harris's audacious attempt to usurp his place. The contrast between the two men could not be more stark - while Shakespeare represents the timeless brilliance of literature and the arts, Harris embodies the ego and egotism of the Victorian era's theatre impresario. Augustus Harris was a prominent figure in London's theatre scene during the late 19th century. He began his career as an actor before transitioning into management, eventually becoming the manager of the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith. Harris was known for his flamboyant personality and his penchant for self-promotion, which is evident in this cartoon. Despite his egotism, Harris made significant contributions to the British theatre scene, producing and directing numerous productions and commissioning new works from contemporary playwrights. However, this cartoon serves as a reminder of the fine line between self-promotion and arrogance, and the importance of recognizing the enduring legacy of the arts and the artists who came before us. This intriguing snapshot of Victorian theatre history provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of theatrical egos and the enduring influence of Shakespeare on the British stage.
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