Cyrano de Bergerac

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Cyrano de Bergerac

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Edmond Rostand's romantic tragedy follows Cyrano de Bergerac, a brilliant but self-conscious nobleman with a prominent nose. Despite his superior wit and swordsmanship, he struggles with insecurity regarding his appearance. The story explores his unrequited love for his cousin Roxane and his complex relationship with the handsome but simple Christian, set against the backdrop of 17th-century Parisian society, military campaigns, and artistic circles.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in 17th-century France, Edmond Rostand's *Cyrano de Bergerac* chronicles the life of a cadet renowned for his poetic genius, fencing prowess, and sharp wit, yet plagued by an oversized nose that renders him socially awkward. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of vibrant Parisian culture, military duty during the siege of Arras, and the theatrical world of the Hôtel de Bourgogne. Central to the plot is a complex love triangle: Cyrano harbors a deep, secret affection for his cousin, Roxane, who is betrothed to the ambitious Count de Guiche. Conversely, Roxane is captivated by the handsome but intellectually shallow Christian de Neuvillette, a fellow cadet. Cyrano frequently assists Christian in wooing Roxane by composing his letters and speeches, a deception that masks Cyrano's own unrequited love. This arrangement allows Christian to express feelings he lacks the eloquence to articulate, while Cyrano pours his soul into words he cannot speak aloud. The story intertwines personal romance with political intrigue and military conflict, highlighting the tension between artistic expression and martial valor. As the plot progresses, Cyrano's physical and emotional wounds compound, culminating in a fatal duel where he is struck down by a lackey. The narrative concludes with a poignant revelation. Upon discovering the truth behind Cyrano's anonymous letters and his lifelong devotion, Roxane realizes that the soul behind the words was always Cyrano's. The play explores themes of pride, honor, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Despite his physical flaws and the tragedy of his death, Cyrano's character stands as a testament to integrity and the capacity for profound love, leaving an indelible mark on those he touched even in the face of mortality.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/edmond-rostand_cyrano-de-bergerac.epub

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Categories

• Classics
• Drama