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Cyrano de Bergerac: An Heroic Comedy in Five Acts

Written by Edmond Rostand

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FranceAuthors, FrenchCyrano de Bergerac, 1619-1655

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About this book

"Cyrano de Bergerac: An Heroic Comedy in Five Acts" by Edmond Rostand is a dramatic play written in the late 19th century. The play centers around the complex character Cyrano, a talented poet and swordsman, who struggles with self-doubt due to his unusually large nose, which he fears makes him unlovable. Set against the backdrop of 17th-century France, the story explores themes of love, honor, and the quest for identity. At the start of the play, the scene is set in the bustling Hôtel de Bourgogne Theatre before a performance. Various characters are introduced, setting up a lively atmosphere filled with banter and anticipation. Among them is Christian, a handsome yet insecure man who admires Roxane, a woman of beauty and intellect. The opening establishes Cyrano’s formidable reputation as a duelist and poet, as well as hints at the deep love he harbors for Roxane, making the audience eager to witness how his unique blend of talent, bravery, and insecurity will unfold as the story progresses.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Cyrano de Bergerac: An Heroic Comedy in Five Acts, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • romantic
  • heroic
  • tragic

Edmond Rostand's "Cyrano de Bergerac" is a timeless romantic drama set in 17th-century France, centering on the titular character, a brilliant poet and swordsman cursed with an enormous nose that fuels his deep-seated insecurity. Secretly in love with his beautiful, intellectual cousin Roxane, Cyrano finds himself in a poignant love triangle when Roxane falls for the handsome, but inarticulate, Christian de Neuvillette. Cyrano selflessly agrees to ghostwrite love letters and whisper eloquent words for Christian, allowing his soul to woo Roxane through another man's face. The play masterfully explores themes of love, honor, appearance versus reality, and the profound power of words, culminating in a tragic yet heroic revelation of Cyrano's lifelong sacrifice.

“A great nose may be an indication of a great soul.”

Key themes

Love and Sacrifice
This is the central theme, explored primarily through Cyrano's unwavering and selfless love for Roxane. He sacrifices his own happiness and identity to ensure Roxane's perceived happiness, channeling his passion through Christian. The theme questions the nature of true love and the extent one will go for another.
Appearance vs. Reality
The play profoundly examines the dichotomy between outward appearance and inner truth. Cyrano's large nose masks his beautiful soul, while Christian's handsome face conceals his lack of eloquence. Roxane initially falls for Christian's looks but ultimately believes she loves the words (Cyrano's soul).
The Power of Words
Words are presented as immensely powerful tools capable of shaping perception, igniting love, and conveying the deepest emotions. Cyrano's eloquence is his greatest asset, allowing him to transcend his physical flaw and connect with Roxane's soul, albeit indirectly.

Worth discussing

Discuss the concept of 'panache' as embodied by Cyrano. How does it define him, and is it always a positive trait?

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