Diana Cooper, born Lady Diana Manners in 1892, was a prominent English aristocrat and social figure in London and Paris. She was known for her beauty and moved within an intellectual circle known as the Coterie, many of whom perished in World War I. She later married Duff Cooper, a survivor of the war and a diplomat. After his death, she authored three volumes of memoirs detailing her experiences.

Cooper also had a career in silent films and on stage, appearing in productions like 'The Glorious Adventure' and touring for twelve years with the play 'The Miracle'. She actively supported her husband's political career and served as a prominent hostess during his diplomatic postings, notably in Algiers and as the wife of the British ambassador to France. Her later years were dedicated to writing her memoirs, which provided a candid look at the upper echelons of society.

Born Lady Diana Manners in London in 1892, she was the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, though her biological father was writer Harry Cust. She was named after the character in George Meredith's novel 'Diana of the Crossways'. In her youth, she was renowned for her beauty and became a central figure in the Coterie, a group of influential young English aristocrats and intellectuals. This circle was tragically decimated by World War I, with many of her close friends, including Raymond Asquith, perishing in the conflict. Her personal devastation from these losses was profound.

Diana Manners married Duff Cooper, one of the surviving members of her social circle, in 1919. Despite initial parental disapproval due to his background and habits, their union endured. The couple became significant social figures, particularly in London and Paris. During her husband's diplomatic career, which included ambassadorship to France, Diana was an influential hostess. She transformed their homes into welcoming centers for diplomats and cultural figures, especially in post-war Paris, where their 'open house' became a notable feature of the city's social scene.

Before her marriage and during wartime, Diana Cooper engaged in various activities, including nursing and briefly editing a magazine. She transitioned into acting, appearing in silent films such as 'The Great Love' and 'Hearts of the World'. She later starred in early British color films and took to the stage, achieving international success with her role in 'The Miracle'. Following her husband's death in 1954, she continued to reside in France. In her later years, she significantly reduced her public activities but produced three volumes of memoirs, offering a personal account of her life and the society she inhabited.

“It didn’t seem to matter—I was devoted to my father and I liked Harry Cust too”

“I am cheered very much by Tom Jones on bastards and I like to see myself as a living monument to incontinence”

“I hope everyone you like better than me will die very soon”

“reverted to the name and title of Lady Diana Cooper”