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Dame Daphne du Maurier (1907–1989) was a renowned English author and playwright, best known for her works in the Gothic, psychological thriller, and romance genres. Here's a brief biography of her life:
Early Life: Daphne du Maurier was born on May 13, 1907, in London, England, into a well-to-do family with literary connections. She was the second of three daughters born to Sir Gerald du Maurier, a prominent actor-manager, and Muriel Beaumont, an actress.
Literary Background: Growing up in a family of writers and performers, du Maurier was exposed to the world of literature and theater from a young age. Her grandfather was the noted writer and cartoonist George du Maurier, and her father was a celebrated actor and playwright.
Educational Background: Du Maurier was educated at home by governesses and later attended finishing schools in France and Switzerland. She did not attend university but developed a passion for writing during her formative years.
Literary Career: Du Maurier's literary career began in the 1920s when she started publishing short stories and articles in various magazines. Her first novel, "The Loving Spirit," was published in 1931 and received critical acclaim. However, it was her third novel, "Jamaica Inn" (1936), a dark tale of smuggling and betrayal set in Cornwall, that brought her widespread recognition.
Major Works: Du Maurier's most famous works include "Rebecca" (1938), a Gothic novel that remains her best-known and most beloved work, "My Cousin Rachel" (1951), "Frenchman's Creek" (1941), and "The Birds" (1952), which was adapted into a film by Alfred Hitchcock.
Personal Life: Du Maurier married Lieutenant-General Sir Frederick Browning in 1932, and they had three children together. Despite her marriage, du Maurier was known to have had romantic relationships with both men and women throughout her life, although she never publicly labeled her sexuality.
Later Years: Du Maurier continued to write prolifically throughout her life, publishing novels, short stories, and plays. She also wrote non-fiction works, including biographies and travelogues. In 1969, she was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her contributions to literature.
Legacy: Daphne du Maurier is remembered as one of the most talented and versatile writers of the 20th century, known for her atmospheric storytelling, complex characters, and vivid settings. Her works continue to be celebrated for their enduring appeal and influence on subsequent generations of writers and filmmakers.
Daphne du Maurier passed away on April 19, 1989, at the age of 81, leaving behind a rich literary legacy that continues to captivate readers worldwide.