La goulue

Definition

La goulue, which translates to 'the glutton' in English, refers to a famous French can-can dancer from the late 19th century, known for her vibrant performances at the Moulin Rouge. She became an iconic figure of Parisian nightlife and was immortalized in several artworks by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, highlighting the cultural and artistic explosion of the time. La goulue was not just a performer; she represented the energy and exuberance of the bohemian lifestyle that characterized the Montmartre district.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. La goulue's real name was Louise Weber, and she became famous for her dynamic and flirtatious dance style.
2. Toulouse-Lautrec captured la goulue in several of his works, including iconic posters that helped define the visual culture of the Belle Époque.
3. Her performances often included playful interactions with the audience, making her a beloved figure among patrons of the Moulin Rouge.
4. La goulue's popularity declined with the advent of new performers and changing tastes in entertainment, but she remains a symbol of the vibrant nightlife of 19th-century Paris.
5. The legacy of la goulue continues to influence modern representations of cabaret culture and is often associated with the spirit of freedom and artistic expression in Paris.

Review Questions

• How did la goulue contribute to the cultural scene of late 19th-century Paris?
  • La goulue played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of late 19th-century Paris through her dynamic performances at the Moulin Rouge. Her energetic can-can dancing not only entertained audiences but also embodied the spirit of freedom and rebellion prevalent during the Belle Époque. By captivating viewers with her unique style, she helped popularize the cabaret scene, making it a central part of Parisian nightlife.
• Analyze how Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec's depictions of la goulue reflect the societal attitudes towards women in performance during this period.
  • Toulouse-Lautrec's portrayals of la goulue reflect both admiration and objectification, showcasing her as a powerful performer while also highlighting societal attitudes towards women in entertainment. His artworks capture her charisma and allure, presenting her as an icon of liberation within a male-dominated society. Yet, these representations also reveal how women's identities were often tied to their roles as entertainers, suggesting a complex relationship between empowerment and exploitation.
• Evaluate la goulue's impact on contemporary views of cabaret culture and its representation in art.
  • La goulue's impact on contemporary views of cabaret culture is profound, as she remains a symbol of boldness and artistic expression. Modern representations often draw on her legacy to explore themes of freedom and femininity within performance art. Her portrayal by Toulouse-Lautrec has influenced how artists today depict the intersection of entertainment and social commentary, allowing la goulue's story to persist as an emblematic figure reflecting both historical context and ongoing discussions about gender roles in performance.

Related terms

Moulin Rouge: A historic cabaret in Paris that became famous for its can-can dance performances and vibrant entertainment scene.

Can-can: A lively, high-energy dance characterized by high kicks and rapid movements, popularized in French cabarets.

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: A French painter and poster artist known for his depictions of Parisian nightlife, particularly his works featuring dancers and performers from the Moulin Rouge.