Cyrano De Bergerac - a Flawed Man in Contemporary Society

Introduction

Tragedies have always been a captivating genre in literature and theater, known for their emotionally draining narratives. Whether they are classical masterpieces or contemporary works, the very word "tragedy" evokes a sense of heartbreak and misfortune. The tragic figure, often flawed and tormented, grapples with forces beyond their control, ultimately leading to their downfall. Edmond Rostand's "Cyrano de Bergerac" is a compelling example of a contemporary tragedy that distinguishes itself from the likes of Shakespeare's "Macbeth" and Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex." While "Cyrano de Bergerac" may not be as strikingly sad as its classical counterparts, it nonetheless unfolds a tale of profound sadness. The titular character, Cyrano, is a man whose life and eventual tragic death are profoundly shaped by his overpowering flaw – his crippling fear of rejection and pervasive insecurity. This essay explores how Cyrano's insecurity permeates every aspect of his life, affecting his relationships, decisions, and ultimately leading to his downfall.

Cyrano's Insecurity and Its Manifestations

Cyrano is a complex character who values many things, notably literature and theater. His first notable appearance in the play is when he passionately defends his beloved theater by attempting to remove an actor, Montfleury, whom he despises, from the stage. Initially, Cyrano's motivations may seem unclear. Why does he care so much about Montfleury's performance? Why is he unbothered by the prospect of making enemies due to his actions? As we delve deeper into Cyrano's character, it becomes evident that his seemingly aggressive behavior stems from a deeper insecurity. Cyrano confides,

"I love when others hate me" (page 114).

This paradoxical statement reveals his inner turmoil. While he may desire people to dislike him, it becomes apparent that he uses this as a self-defense mechanism to rationalize the overwhelming number of individuals who harbor resentment towards him. Cyrano's peculiar behavior, therefore, emerges as a manifestation of his self-hatred, leading him to make enemies deliberately, all stemming from his underlying insecurity.

The Unrequited Love for Roxane

Central to the story is Cyrano's secret and unrequited love for Roxane, a woman who values him deeply as a friend. Over time, Roxane falls in love with Cyrano's eloquent letters, unaware that they were penned by him. Even after her lover, Christian, and the supposed author of the letters, dies, Cyrano remains silent about his true feelings and identity. He continues to hover near Roxane's life, devoting fifteen long years to this silent, unfulfilled love. Cyrano's tragic downfall is inextricably tied to his inability to express his true emotions. His silence and refusal to pursue the woman he loves transform him into an unhappy, lonely man. He becomes increasingly cynical, and his inner turmoil eats away at him. When his close friend Le Bret suggests revealing the truth to Roxane, Cyrano vehemently rejects the idea, blaming his insecurity, epitomized by his prominent nose, as the insurmountable barrier to their love. Cyrano's tragic flaw, his insecurity, is a profound obstacle that ultimately condemns him to a life of loneliness and misery.

The Fatal Consequences of Insecurity

Cyrano's literal death, though labeled as an "accident," is foreshadowed by De Guiche, who cryptically hints at it during a conversation with Le Bret. De Guiche states,

"This man Cyrano may die—accidentally" (page X).

By this point in the story, it is clear that Cyrano has accumulated a considerable number of enemies due to his insecurity-fueled actions. His life has already spiraled into one of poverty and misery, a result of his choices in dealing with Roxane and others. Once again, it is his deep-seated insecurity that is at the root of these problems. Cyrano's inability to form lasting relationships and his tendency to make enemies all stem from his lack of self-worth. Thus, his tragic end can be attributed to the way he interacts with people, pushing them away as a consequence of his own insecurity.

Conclusion

Cyrano de Bergerac is a character who elicits sympathy and teaches a poignant lesson about self-love and bravery. While not as overtly tragic as some literary figures, it is challenging to read his story and not classify him as a tragic character. He lived a lonely life and met a miserable end. His tale serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of insecurity. Cyrano de Bergerac is not merely a story of unrequited love but a cautionary tale about the crippling impact of self-doubt and the importance of embracing one's vulnerabilities. In conclusion, Cyrano de Bergerac's character embodies the contemporary tragedy of insecurity. His actions, decisions, and ultimate demise are all deeply influenced by his overwhelming fear of rejection and his profound sense of insecurity. The character of Cyrano serves as a reminder that our flaws can consume us if left unchecked, leading to a tragic existence. In exploring Cyrano's journey, we are compelled to reflect on our own insecurities and the potential harm they can inflict. Just as classical tragedies like "Macbeth" strengthen our understanding of morality, Cyrano de Bergerac inspires introspection into the human condition, urging us to confront and overcome our insecurities rather than allowing them to dictate our fate.