Daphne DuMaurier
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Full Name and Common Aliases

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Daphne du Maurier was born Daphne Mary Browning on May 13, 1907, in London, England. She is commonly referred to as Daphne du Maurier or simply du Maurier.

Birth and Death Dates

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Born: May 13, 1907
Died: April 19, 1989

Nationality and Profession(s)

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Nationality: British
Profession(s): Novelist, Short Story Writer, Playwright, Memoirist

Early Life and Background

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Du Maurier was born into a family of artists and writers. Her father, Sir Gerald du Maurier, was an actor and artist, while her mother, Muriel Beaumont, was an actress. Daphne's younger brother, John Julius, would later become a well-known television presenter and author.

Du Maurier spent much of her childhood at the family home in Cornwall, where she developed a love for nature and the sea. She attended a series of private schools but did not excel academically. Instead, she focused on developing her creative skills through writing and art.

Major Accomplishments

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Published her first novel, _The Loving Spirit_, at 18 years old.
Wrote several bestselling novels, including _Jamaica Inn_ (1936), _Rebecca_ (1938), and _Frenchman's Creek_ (1941).
Adapted many of her works for the stage and screen, including a film adaptation of _Rebecca_ starring Laurence Olivier.
Won numerous awards for her writing, including the Order of the British Empire in 1937.

Notable Works or Actions

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Du Maurier's most famous novel is arguably _Rebecca_, which tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower and returns to his estate only to discover that she cannot escape the memory of her predecessor. The novel has been adapted countless times for film, stage, and television.

Another notable work by du Maurier is _Jamaica Inn_, a historical romance set in 19th-century Cornwall. This novel explores themes of family secrets, smuggling, and the complexities of human relationships.

Du Maurier's writing often incorporated elements of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural, which captivated readers worldwide. Her works continue to be popular today, with many remaining bestsellers.

Impact and Legacy

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Daphne du Maurier has left an indelible mark on literature and cinema. Her novels have influenced generations of writers, including the likes of Stephen King and Gillian Flynn.

Her legacy extends beyond her writing as well. Du Maurier was a pioneering woman in many ways, particularly given the societal norms of her time. She defied convention by pursuing a career in writing despite the lack of encouragement from her family.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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Daphne du Maurier is widely quoted and remembered for several reasons:

Timeless storytelling: Her novels and short stories continue to captivate readers with their blend of suspense, romance, and historical context.
Influence on popular culture: Du Maurier's works have inspired countless adaptations in film, television, and theater, cementing her place in the cultural landscape.
* Pioneering spirit: As a woman in a male-dominated field, du Maurier broke ground for future generations of writers.