Marilyn Monroe was much more intelligent than many people initially thought. While her image as a "dumb blonde" became part of her public persona, those who knew her personally, as well as those who worked closely with her, often described her as being highly intelligent, thoughtful, and introspective.
Here are several key aspects of Marilyn Monroe's intelligence:
1. Academic Interests and Reading:
Marilyn Monroe was an avid reader with a deep interest in literature and the arts. She had a personal library and was known to read classic works of literature, philosophy, and psychology. Some of the authors she reportedly read included James Joyce, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Carl Jung, indicating a keen intellectual curiosity.
Monroe's desire to educate herself extended beyond mere enjoyment of books; she had an ongoing interest in self-improvement and learning. She enrolled in acting classes at the Actor's Studio in New York, where she studied under renowned coaches like Lee Strasberg, who later praised her as a thoughtful and dedicated student.
2. Psychological Awareness:
Monroe had a deep awareness of her own emotional and psychological state. She struggled with mental health issues throughout her life, including depression and anxiety, but she was also very introspective about these struggles. She sought therapy at various points in her life and often talked openly about her emotional challenges, showing a level of self-awareness that many people would not expect from someone living under the constant public scrutiny she faced.
3. Understanding of the Hollywood Industry:
Marilyn Monroe was not just a passive figure in Hollywood; she was an astute businesswoman who took control of her career. In 1954, she founded her own production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions, after growing frustrated with the limited roles offered to her by 20th Century Fox. This was a strategic move that allowed her to have more creative control and select the types of roles she wanted to pursue, which reflected her intelligence in navigating the business side of the entertainment industry.