Meaning: Sarah Bernhardt, a renowned French actress from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, once said, "Once the curtain is raised, the actor ceases to belong to himself. He belongs to his character, to his author, to his public. He must do the impossible to identify himself with the first, not to betray the second, and not to disappoint the third." This quote encapsulates the essence of the actor's commitment to their craft and the complex relationship they have with their character, the playwright, and the audience.

When an actor steps onto the stage, they undergo a transformation. They relinquish their own identity and immerse themselves in the persona of the character they are portraying. This process requires a deep understanding of the character's motivations, emotions, and experiences. The actor must internalize these elements to such an extent that they become an extension of the character, blurring the lines between their own self and the role they are playing.

Furthermore, the actor becomes a vessel for the playwright's vision. They carry the words and intentions of the author, breathing life into the narrative and bringing the story to fruition. This responsibility demands a profound respect for the text and a commitment to honoring the playwright's creation. The actor must embody the essence of the character as envisioned by the author, staying true to the intended portrayal while infusing it with their own interpretation and creativity.

Equally important is the actor's relationship with the audience. Once on stage, they are entrusted with the task of captivating and engaging the viewers, eliciting emotions and provoking thoughts. The audience places their trust in the actor to deliver a compelling performance that resonates with them on a personal level. As such, the actor must strive to meet and exceed the expectations of the public, delivering a performance that is authentic, powerful, and memorable.

Sarah Bernhardt's quote emphasizes the intricate balance that actors must strike between these three entities: the character, the author, and the public. It underscores the demanding nature of the actor's role, highlighting the multifaceted obligations and commitments they must fulfill when they take to the stage. The quote serves as a reminder of the immense dedication and skill required to excel in the performing arts.

In conclusion, Sarah Bernhardt's words encapsulate the profound responsibilities and challenges that actors face when they enter the realm of performance. The quote speaks to the transformative nature of acting, the symbiotic relationship between the actor and their character, the playwright, and the audience. It serves as a poignant reflection on the actor's ceaseless endeavor to embody, honor, and inspire, transcending the boundaries of self to become a conduit for storytelling and emotional resonance.