DEVRIENT, CARL AUGUST

(1797-1872)

Actor. After serving in the Napoleonic wars as a cavalry officer, Devrient used the influence of his uncleLudwig Devrientto get an audition withAugust Ernst Klingemannin Braunschweig, where he made his debut. In 1821 he was engaged for heroic roles at the Dresden Court Theater, where he remained until 1835. In Hannover three years later, Devrient began to play character parts; his Lear and William Tell were especially praised.Ludwig Tieckfound him effective in mature roles, having witnessed his earlier work. His career was unfortunately blemished by frequent quarrels with his brotherEmil Devrient. Carl Devrient was also the brother ofEduard Devrientand was the father ofFriedrich DevrientandMax Devrient.