Meaning: Ethel Barrymore, a renowned American actress, provides a candid and somewhat humorous insight into the multifaceted nature of success in the acting profession. In her quote, she outlines the diverse qualities and attributes that are seemingly required for an actress to achieve success.

Firstly, she mentions "the face of a Venus," which refers to the classical beauty associated with the goddess of love and beauty in Roman mythology. This implies that physical attractiveness is an important factor in the success of an actress. In the world of acting, the visual appeal of an individual often plays a significant role in securing roles and gaining recognition. However, it is important to note that the definition of beauty is subjective and can vary across different cultures and time periods.

Following this, Barrymore refers to "the brains of a Minerva," alluding to the wisdom and intellect associated with the Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare. This suggests that intelligence and mental acuity are essential qualities for an actress to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry. The ability to understand scripts, interpret characters, and adapt to different roles requires a certain level of intellectual prowess.

The next attribute mentioned is "the grace of Terpsichore," which invokes the imagery of the Greek muse of dance and choral song. Gracefulness and physical dexterity are integral components of an actress's skill set. The ability to move fluidly, express emotions through body language, and perform choreographed sequences all contribute to a well-rounded portrayal of characters.

Barrymore then emphasizes "the memory of a MaCaulay," indicating the importance of a strong memory for an actress. Memorizing lines, blocking, and stage directions is a fundamental aspect of the profession. The capacity to recall and deliver dialogue effectively is crucial for maintaining the flow and coherence of a performance.

The next requirement is "the figure of Juno," referencing the Roman queen of the gods, symbolizing strength and regal bearing. This implies that a certain physical presence and charisma are necessary for an actress to command attention and exude confidence on stage or screen.

Lastly, Barrymore humorously mentions "the hide of a rhinoceros," alluding to the thick skin and resilience needed to endure the inevitable rejections, criticisms, and challenges that actors face in their careers. The entertainment industry can be notoriously competitive and demanding, and the ability to persevere in the face of setbacks is a vital attribute for success.

In conclusion, Ethel Barrymore's quote encapsulates the diverse and demanding nature of the acting profession. It serves as a reminder that success in this field requires a combination of physical, intellectual, emotional, and psychological attributes. While her words may reflect the specific challenges faced by actresses in her era, the underlying message about the multifaceted nature of success in acting remains relevant today.

Ultimately, the quote highlights the complex and often contradictory expectations placed on actresses, as they are simultaneously required to embody ideals of beauty, intelligence, grace, strength, resilience, and more. It serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the standards and pressures faced by those in the performing arts, and prompts reflection on the broader societal values and perceptions that shape these expectations.