Sarah Bernhardt: 'I have often been asked why I am so fond of playing male parts. As a matter of fact, it is not male parts, but male brains that I prefer.'

I have often been asked why I am so fond of playing male parts. As a matter of fact, it is not male parts, but male brains that I prefer.

In the world of theater, where traditional gender roles have long been prevalent, Sarah Bernhardt, the famous French actress of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, made a thought-provoking statement: 'I have often been asked why I am so fond of playing male parts. As a matter of fact, it is not male parts, but male brains that I prefer.' This quote can be summarized as Bernhardt's affinity for portraying male characters not being due to their gender specifically, but rather due to the qualities associated with male thinking. While this statement alone carries a significant message about gender and identity, I would like to introduce a philosophical concept, existentialism, to further explore the idea of preference for distinct thought processes.At first glance, Bernhardt's statement appears to challenge the notion of gender roles in theater and perhaps society at large. It challenges the belief that certain professions or characteristics inherently correspond to a particular gender. By expressing her fondness for portraying male characters, Bernhardt draws attention to the stereotypical portrayals of men and women, highlighting the need to break away from such constraints.However, by indicating that it is not the male parts but male brains that she prefers, Bernhardt introduces an unexpected twist to the discussion. It suggests that she finds something inherently intriguing and captivating about the way men think, their mental processes, attitudes, and perspectives. By focusing on male brains, rather than the external appearance or societal expectation, Bernhardt deepens the conversation by emphasizing the significance of a distinct thought process. It prompts us to consider the underlying philosophical concept of existentialism, which explores individual freedom, choice, and self-determination.Existentialism advocates for the idea that each person has the ability to shape their own existence and determine their own values. It places great emphasis on personal responsibility and encourages individuals to engage in self-reflection to discover their authentic selves. In the context of Bernhardt's quote, considering the appeal of male brains, we can ponder whether she finds the distinct thought process associated with masculinity more conducive to self-discovery, freedom, and individuality.To compare and contrast, we can also explore the inherent qualities associated with female thinking. While Bernhardt's quote emphasizes her preference for male brains and playing male characters, it does not suggest any lack of appreciation for female qualities or perspectives. By focusing on the male, she invites us to consider what specific qualities she finds intriguing, without necessarily devaluing the female perspective.It is important to note that gender is not an absolute determinant of thought processes or mental attributes. There is significant variation among individuals, regardless of their gender identity. Bernhardt's preference for male brains may stem from her experiences or observations that resonate with particular modes of thinking she finds captivating. As individuals, we are each drawn to different qualities or ways of thinking, and it is this diversity that enriches our understanding of the human experience.In conclusion, Sarah Bernhardt's quote, 'I have often been asked why I am so fond of playing male parts. As a matter of fact, it is not male parts, but male brains that I prefer,' challenges traditional gender roles and perceptions in theater and society. By emphasizing the appeal of male thought processes, Bernhardt invites us to reflect on the distinct qualities and perspectives that transcend gender. This quote serves as a reminder that we should not limit ourselves to predetermined notions of what we should be, but should instead embrace individuality and the freedom to choose our own paths of self-discovery. By bringing in the philosophical concept of existentialism, we deepen the exploration of personal freedom, choice, and self-determination, allowing us to appreciate the richness of human diversity.