Discovering Lillie Langtry: Aestheticism and the development of a transatlantic market in beauty, 1880--1927

This dissertation examines the life and stage career of the noted British actress, Lillie Langtry. Langtry's business acumen and dedication as a stage performer made her wealthy and professionally successful. This research explores Langtry's transatlantic travels in order to evaluate her within the context of late Victorian and early Progressive Era history. This research provides assessments of Langtry in England and America. This study places Langtry within the context of a new transatlantic industry in beauty, an industry fuelled by Langtry's extensive travels and self-promotion. This paper provides an overview of Langtry's life and career with special focus on. (1) her marketing of her physical image, as well as other business endeavors; (2) her role as an exemplar of and spokesperson for aestheticism; (3) her presence as an actress; and (4) her experience as a traveler.