Life — November 24, 1904 — page 12: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Imported Merit" - Madame Réjane This page critiques American theater's admiration for French actresses. The article praises **Madame Réjane**, a French performer, while comparing her favorably to American actresses. The author argues that while Réjane demonstrates technical mastery and emotional range, American actresses lack her training and sophistication. The satire targets American audiences' assumption that European (particularly French) talent is inherently superior. The accompanying sketch by Sir Gibson depicts Réjane in an exaggerated, theatrical pose—suggesting the very artificiality the text claims makes her great. The piece implies that American theater-goers are culturally insecure, too readily dismissing homegrown talent in favor of imported prestige.