Introduction:
Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993) was a groundbreaking actress and devoted philanthropist. Her iconic style, unique acting abilities, and dedication to humanitarian causes make her a pivotal figure of the 20th century. Introducing students to Audrey Hepburn’s life and work can inspire them to emulate her values of kindness, grace, and humility.
Early Life:
Born on May 4, 1929, in Brussels, Belgium, Audrey Kathleen Ruston grew up in a trilingual household speaking English, Dutch, and French. During World War II, she lived under German occupation in the Netherlands and would later recall the impact of war on her childhood experiences. These early years fostered an understanding of suffering that would shape her future commitments to humanitarian work.
Acting Career:
Audrey Hepburn’s acting career took off in the early 1950s with supporting roles on Broadway and in European films. Her breakthrough came with the lead role in the 1953 romantic comedy “Roman Holiday,” for which she earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Despite her growing fame and success, Hepburn maintained a down-to-earth attitude throughout her career.
One significant aspect of teaching students about Hepburn is highlighting her acting versatility — from romantic comedies like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961) to dramas such as “The Nun’s Story” (1959). Discussing the themes explored in these films can offer students a broader understanding of cinema history and societal norms during the mid-20th century.
Style Icon:
Known for her elegant ensembles designed by Hubert de Givenchy, Audrey’s style became synonymous with sophistication and grace. Introduce students to notable outfits from Audrey’s films — such as her little black dress from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” or the stunning gown from “Sabrina” (1954) — to demonstrate the impact of fashion on expressing character and emotion.
Humanitarian Work:
Hepburn’s empathy for those in need led her to dedicate much of her time to humanitarian work later in life. In 1988, she became a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, traveling worldwide to support children in need and raise awareness about global poverty. Encourage students to learn from Hepburn’s example by participating in local charitable initiatives or researching global humanitarian organizations.
In Conclusion:
Teaching students about Audrey Hepburn is an excellent way to inspire them through her acting, iconic style, and tireless philanthropy. Incorporate her story into the classroom by discussing film history, analyzing her fashion choices’ impact, and examining her humanitarian work. By understanding Hepburn’s life and influence, students can appreciate the power of resilience, empathy, and generosity to bring about positive change.
