Nathaniel Altman

Robert Charles Benchley (1889-1945) was an American humorist, columnist, and actor who achieved considerable success and respect during his lifetime. His career began at The Harvard Lampoon, and he later became a celebrated writer for publications like Vanity Fair and The New Yorker. Benchley was also recognized for his work in Hollywood, particularly his Academy Award-winning short film "How to Sleep" and his acting roles in films such as "Foreign Correspondent."

Benchley's distinctive humor, often characterized by topical observations and absurdist wit, influenced many subsequent humorists. His early life included a notable family history, with a grandfather involved in the Underground Railroad and an older brother who died in the Spanish-American War, experiences that may have shaped his pacifist leanings. After attending Harvard, where his comedic talents first emerged, Benchley pursued a varied early professional career in writing and publicity before establishing himself as a prominent figure in American letters and cinema.

Robert Benchley is most remembered for his significant contributions to The New Yorker magazine, where his essays, ranging from timely commentary to the absurd, left a lasting impact on modern humorists. His work for the publication was highly influential, shaping the style and sensibilities of many who followed. Beyond his written output, Benchley also made a notable mark in Hollywood. His short film "How to Sleep" achieved widespread popularity and critical acclaim, earning an Academy Award for Best Short Subject in 1935. He also appeared memorably in films such as Alfred Hitchcock's "Foreign Correspondent" and Walt Disney's "The Reluctant Dragon," further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.

Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, Robert Benchley hailed from a family with colonial roots. His grandfather was a Massachusetts state senator and lieutenant governor who later became an activist for the Underground Railroad, facing arrest for his efforts. Benchley's older brother, Edmund, a West Point cadet, was killed in action during the Spanish-American War. This tragedy, occurring when Robert was nine, reportedly led to his mother's anguished exclamation about Robert's survival and may have contributed to Robert's developing pacifist sentiments. The association of fireworks with his brother's death also marked his personal life.

Benchley's academic journey included attendance at Phillips Exeter Academy and Harvard University, where he was supported financially by his late brother's fiancée. During his time at Harvard, his natural comedic talent became apparent. He frequently entertained his fraternity brothers with impressions and performances, gaining local recognition for his abilities. He was actively involved with student publications, serving on the board of The Harvard Lampoon, and participated in theatrical productions. Despite some academic setbacks, including a humorous treatise on a fisheries dispute written from the perspective of a cod, he eventually earned his degree.

Following his graduation, Benchley engaged in various writing and service roles, including work for the Curtis Company and freelance contributions. His early professional path was marked by a series of jobs, including reporting for the New York Tribune, where he eventually found success writing feature articles. He also reviewed theater for Vanity Fair. His time at the Tribune was complicated by his pacifist views clashing with the publication's wartime rhetoric, leading to his departure. He then pursued freelance work and briefly served as a press agent and in publicity roles for government boards, experiences that were often challenging.