Eleanora Duse, the Italian tragedienne, who is Signora Cecci in private
life, was born, in 1861, in Vigovano, Italy. At an early age she gave
indications of those histrionic talents which subsequently made her
famous. For many years she was one of the most notable figures on the
stage of her country. She made her American début in 1893 at the Fifth
Avenue theater, New York. While there is no gainsaying the sincerity
and finish of her art, yet at the same time there are not a few critics
who take exception to it on the score of the sombre plays and methods
of the actress. Since her début she has visited the United States on
more than one occasion, and in each instance her following in this
country have accorded her the welcome which is due to her as an artiste
and a woman.