The Courageous Character of Cyrano in Cyrano De Bergerac, a Play by Edmond Rostand

The Courageous Character of Cyrano in Cyrano De Bergerac

Edmond Rostand's play "Cyrano de Bergerac" is a rich tapestry of themes, emotions, and character exploration, centering around the titular character, Cyrano. His actions throughout the play raise important questions about courage and arrogance. While many instances of Cyrano's behavior can be viewed as acts of bravery, one must consider whether these actions stem from a genuine desire for justice or a need for attention. This essay seeks to explore the dual nature of Cyrano's character, examining his courageous acts while also considering the possibility of underlying arrogance.

Cyrano's Notable Acts of Courage

From the outset of the play, Cyrano's character is established as a man of principles. He exhibits courage in various situations, often risking his safety and reputation for the sake of others. One of the pivotal moments occurs at the beginning of the play when Cyrano confronts the actor Montfleury, whom he has banned from performing on stage. Cyrano's public display of anger and his willingness to draw his sword demonstrate his fearless nature. Below is a list of some of Cyrano's most courageous moments:

• Confronting Montfleury to protect his own honor and uphold his principles.
• Defending the honor of his beloved Roxane, even at great personal cost.
• Engaging in duels and battles, not only for his own sake but also for those he cares about.
• Writing beautiful letters to Roxane on behalf of Christian, risking his own feelings and identity.

These acts highlight Cyrano's willingness to stand up for what he believes in, even when faced with significant opposition. He is a man who does not shy away from conflict, which many would interpret as a hallmark of courage.

The Thin Line Between Courage and Arrogance

However, the question remains: does Cyrano's courage come at the expense of his humility? His confrontational nature and penchant for dramatic displays often blur the lines between bravery and arrogance. For instance, when Cyrano interrupts Montfleury's performance, the audience is left in shock. While his actions may have been motivated by a desire to uphold his principles, they also serve to place him in the spotlight. This leads to the possibility that Cyrano's need for recognition may overshadow his noble intentions.

This table illustrates how Cyrano's actions can be interpreted in dual ways. While he exhibits undeniable courage, there is an underlying current of arrogance that complicates his character. His desire to be recognized for his bravery often leads him to take center stage, even when the situation calls for subtlety and humility.

Personal Reflection on Cyrano's Character

In my view, Cyrano's actions are not purely driven by a desire to uphold his principles. Rather, they stem from a complex interplay of motivations that include a longing for recognition and validation. While I admire Cyrano's courage, I cannot ignore the moments where his arrogance overshadows his intentions. His dramatic flair and penchant for grand gestures suggest that he craves the admiration of others.

Despite this, I believe that Cyrano is indeed a courageous character. There are moments throughout the play where he risks his life without seeking an audience. For instance, when he fights battles in the dark of night or helps his friends without expecting anything in return, his true bravery shines through. It is these moments that paint him as a hero, even if they are often clouded by his more flamboyant actions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cyrano de Bergerac is a multifaceted character whose actions provoke discussions about the nature of courage and arrogance. While he undoubtedly embodies the spirit of a brave man, his desire for recognition complicates our understanding of his true motivations. Through his courageous acts and occasional displays of arrogance, Cyrano serves as a reminder that human character is rarely black and white. Rather, it exists in shades of gray, where bravery and vanity can coexist, shaping the complexity of our identities.

References:

• Rostand, Edmond. "Cyrano de Bergerac." Translated by various authors, multiple editions.
• Literary Analysis of "Cyrano de Bergerac" by various scholars.
• Character Studies in Classic Literature by various authors.