Cyrano de Bergerac

About “Cyrano de Bergerac”

Cyrano de Bergerac is a verse drama in five acts written by Edmond Rostand and first performed in 1897. Based only loosely on a 17th-century nobleman known for his bravery and large nose, the play is set in Paris and follows Cyrano, a skilled but self-conscious man who believes his appearance prevents him from winning love. He helps his friend Christian, who is less articulate, win the affection of Roxane by writing love letters and speeches for him. Christian later learns that Roxane loves Cyrano’s words, not his own, and asks Cyrano to reveal himself. Cyrano refuses, and Christian is killed in battle. Years later, as Cyrano lies dying, he visits Roxane and recites a love letter. She realizes he is the true object of her affection, and he dies happy.