Devrient Louis

Devrient, Louis (1784-1832), a German comedian born in Berlin. He was put to a trade, but having a strong liking for the stage he ran away. His first stage appearance was in 1802. His disorderly habits soon landed him in difficulties, and his father made overtures of reconciliation which were very near being accepted. He married Margaret Heefe, and coming to Berlin he made the acquaintance of the actor Iffland, whose successor he became. He played the part of Franz Moor in Schiller's Robbers, and was a favourite actor for seventeen years. His success was chiefly owing to his great power of throwing himself into his parts. His death was hastened by drink.