The identity of the first actress is debated, but Anne Marshall is often cited as a strong contender for the first actress on the English stage.
Anne Marshall: A Potential First
According to some historians, Anne Marshall holds the distinction of being the first actress to grace the English stage. However, it's important to consider the context surrounding this claim.
- Much of the information about early actresses relies on the recollections of John Downes.
- Downes's memories of the 1660s are crucial to supporting the claim that Anne Marshall was the first.
The Challenge of Identifying the "First" Actress
Pinpointing the absolute "first" actress is challenging due to:
- Limited historical records: Documentation from the period is often incomplete or ambiguous.
- Debate over definitions: What constitutes a "professional" actress, and what qualifies as a "stage," can be open to interpretation.
- Reliance on accounts: Historians rely on accounts such as John Downes', which may be subject to bias or inaccuracies over time.
Summary
| Name | Claim to Fame | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Marshall | Potential first English actress | Some historians identify her as such, relying heavily on early recollections like those of John Downes concerning the 1660s. |
