Eleonora Duse

Eleonora Duse (3 October 1858–21 April 1924), was an Italian actress, often known simply as Duse.

She was born at Vigevano and entered acting (her family's profession) as a child. She came to fame in Italian versions of rôles made famous by Sarah Bernhardt. As an adult she toured Europe and America, and was particularly associated with the plays of Gabriele d'Annunzio.

Her naturalistic and individual style was in contrast to Bernhardt's high emotionalism, and the two were rivals for many years.

She died in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania while on tour in the United States.