Daphne du Maurier

Definition

Daphne du Maurier was a British author known for her suspenseful and atmospheric novels, which often explore themes of identity, obsession, and the supernatural. Her most famous works include 'Rebecca' and 'Jamaica Inn,' which have influenced film and literature, especially in the realm of psychological thrillers. Du Maurier's writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions and complex characters, making her a significant figure in both literary and cinematic history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Daphne du Maurier was born in 1907 into a creative family, with her father being a prominent theatrical manager.
2. Her novel 'Rebecca' won the prestigious James Tait Black Memorial Prize for fiction and has been adapted into multiple films and stage productions.
3. Du Maurier's writing often reflects her own experiences and the landscapes of Cornwall, which deeply influenced her storytelling.
4. Alfred Hitchcock's film adaptation of 'Rebecca' won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1941, cementing its status in cinematic history.
5. Daphne du Maurier wrote not only novels but also short stories, plays, and biographies, showcasing her versatility as an author.

Review Questions

• How does Daphne du Maurier's background influence her writing style and themes?
  • Daphne du Maurier's background as part of a creative family significantly shaped her writing style and themes. Growing up in an environment surrounded by the arts allowed her to develop a rich imagination and a flair for storytelling. Her personal experiences and connection to Cornwall are reflected in her vivid descriptions and complex characters, often exploring themes of identity and obsession, which resonate throughout her works.
• Discuss the impact of Alfred Hitchcock's adaptations of Daphne du Maurier's novels on both her legacy and the film industry.
  • Alfred Hitchcock's adaptations of Daphne du Maurier's novels, particularly 'Rebecca' and 'Jamaica Inn,' played a crucial role in shaping both her literary legacy and the landscape of cinema. Hitchcock's ability to translate du Maurier's suspenseful narratives into compelling films helped popularize her work beyond literary circles. The psychological depth and atmospheric tension present in her stories complemented Hitchcock's signature style, leading to critically acclaimed films that have had lasting influence on the thriller genre.
• Evaluate the significance of du Maurier’s themes of identity and obsession in relation to contemporary literature and film.
  • The themes of identity and obsession present in Daphne du Maurier’s work hold significant relevance in contemporary literature and film. These themes explore the complexities of human nature and relationships, allowing audiences to connect with characters on a deeper emotional level. As modern stories continue to delve into psychological dimensions similar to those found in du Maurier’s narratives, her influence persists, highlighting how such themes remain timeless within storytelling across different mediums. This ongoing exploration reflects societal changes while maintaining the core elements that make her work enduringly impactful.

Related terms

Rebecca:

A novel by Daphne du Maurier published in 1938, focusing on a young bride who struggles with the haunting legacy of her husband's first wife, Rebecca.

Alfred Hitchcock:

A renowned film director known for his mastery in suspense and thriller genres, who adapted several of du Maurier's works into iconic films.

Jamaica Inn: A historical novel by Daphne du Maurier published in 1936 that tells the story of a young woman caught up in the world of smuggling and crime on the Cornish coast.