A liquid crystalline compound within the scope of the general formula: ##STR30## wherein R1 is a group of the general formula -A'-, -A'-R0 1 -R'-, -A'-R0 1 -R'-R0 2 -R- or a steroidal moiety, wherein each A', R' and R independently is a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic moiety having 6 to 24 carbon atoms, a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaromatic moiety having 6 to 24 carbon atoms or a s