Synopsis: Cyrano de Bergerac is the story of its title character, Cyrano, a skilled swordsman, poet, philosopher, and romantic who falls deeply in love with his cousin, Roxane. Despite his gallantry, Cyrano is marred by a repulsive physical attribute – his exceptionally large nose. Because of his nose, Cyrano is certain that he cannot win the affection of Roxane. Instead, Cyrano helps Christian, a handsome cadet lacking charm and eloquence, to conquer Roxane’s heart by writing letters to her signed with Christian’s name. True love runs its meandering course and produces an enchanting tale complete with romantic balcony scenes, epic duels, and ceaseless olfactory humor.
Review: Much like one of Raguneau’s pastries, Cyrano de Bergerac is a delightful product of France wrapped up in poetry and tied up quite neatly. The story of Cyrano de Bergerac is simply beautiful. Inspired by real-life Parisian nobleman and author Savinien de Cyrano de Bergerac, this five-act play written by Edmond Rostand has captured the hearts of readers and theatergoers since its premiere on stage in December 1897.
Cyrano de Bergerac is possibly the most beautiful literary tale about unrequited love. The story itself deals with passion, honor, dignity, and true love, while the language is simply marvelous. Edmond Rostand’s writing sweeps readers off their feet and could transform the most ardent realist into a romantic.
Although the tale takes place in seventeenth-century France, the English translation is a breeze to read. The play is organized into five acts. My paperback copy from Signet Classics is 236 pages, but since it is a play, it reads rather quickly. My copy also includes a fantastic Introduction written by Eteel Lawson that contextualizes Cyrano de Bergerac and gives insight into what makes Cyrano such a lovable and memorable character. It provides some French and theatrical history that were helpful when reading. This copy also includes an Afterword by Cynthia B. Kerr that is worth the read.
There have been many film adaptations of Cyrano de Bergerac, but my favorite is the 1990 version directed by Jean-Paul Rappaneau starring Gérard Depardieu as Cyrano. The film is in French, but optional English subtitles are available. Don’t let the language deter you – hearing the French makes the viewing experience even more beautiful! It can be difficult to find a copy of this film in the United States, but Amazon usually has the DVD in stock. It is because of this movie that I fell in love with the story of Cyrano de Bergerac and picked up a copy of the play to read.
Drink: Roxane’s Rosé
Rosie Posie 