Call Number:

Ms. Codex 1844

Repository:

University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts

Extent:

1 volume

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

M. Alice Mason commonplace book, circa 1897, Ms. Codex 1844, Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, University of Pennsylvania

Date:

circa 1897 (inclusive)

Creator:

Mason, M. Alice

Form:

Manuscripts, American -- 19th century, Poetry, Excerpts, Commonplace books, and Codices (bound manuscripts)

Abstract:

A volume comprising excerpts from works regarding exercises of the body to enhance stage performance, acting, expression, and elocution. M. Alice Mason probably compiled the items in the volume around 1890.

Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts to Eugene Josiah and Susan Frances (Sargent) Mason on August 12, 1868. Miss Mason attended Lawrence High School and graduated in 1887. In 1890 she moved to Winchester, Massachusetts where she lived with her cousin Elizabeth (Lizzie) Norton Mason. M. Alice Mason was actively engaged in the Winchester community both socially and religiously. She was a member of the Unitarian Church, served on charitable and civic committees, and belonged to two dramatic groups. Miss Mason had one brother John S. Mason.

This marble paper covered volume contains excerpts from works regarding exercises of the body to enhance stage performance, acting, expression, and elocution. M. Alice Mason probably compiled the items in the volume around 1890. The excerpts are drawn from works by Francois Delsarte and Florence Adelaide Fowle Adams. The volume contains relaxation exercises for each part of the face and body along with descriptions of their benefits for acting and expression. Examples are exercises for the hands, head, and body including fingers, eyelids, and hips. Following the techniques for the body are sections entitled: Transition in gesticulation, Delsarte drill, Nine positions of the feet, Harmonic poise of the body, Tonal divisions of the body, and The walk. Each section has practice exercises and defines the emotions projected by position and gesture. At the end of the volume are three poetic works entitled, The city of the heart, Spring journey, and Abou Ben Adhem. The hymnal Rock of ages is also included. Some sections of the volume are blank. A label on the front cover reads: "M. Alice Mason, 86 Main Street, Winchester, Mass., Mrs. Adams".