Cyrano de Bergerac, Edmond Rostand

Although the tale of Cyrano with his unsightly nose is a tragic love story, the play explores a much deeper theme: True beauty transcends external appearance and is found in the generosity of heart. Ashamed of his appearance, Cyrano is persuaded to help a rival suitor win the heart of the woman he himself loves. In the end, however, this deception leads to heartbreak for all.

Related Readings

"The Masterpieces" from Edmond Rostand—literary criticism by Alba della Fazia Amoia

"Cyrano de Bergerac"; "'Cyrano' in English"—theater reviews by Max Beerbohm

"Beauty: When the Other Dancer Is the Self"—personal essay by Alice Walker

"On Falling in Love"—essay by Robert Louis Stevenson

"Strangers in Love"—sociological analysis by Esther Gwinnell, M.D.

Study Guide (PDF)