Topic > Cyrano De Bergerac - an imperfect man in contemporary society

IndexIntroductionCyrano's insecurity and its manifestationsUnrequited love for RoxaneThe fatal consequences of insecurityConclusionIntroductionTragedies have always been a captivating genre in literature and theater, known for their emotionally draining narratives. Whether 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, which ultimately lead to their downfall. Edmond Rostand's "Cyrano de Bergerac" is a compelling example of contemporary tragedy that stands out from the likes of Shakespeare's "Macbeth" and Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex." While “Cyrano de Bergerac” may not be as startlingly sad as its classic counterparts, it still tells a story of profound sadness. The main character, Cyrano, is a man whose life and eventual tragic death are profoundly shaped by his overbearing flaw: his crippling fear of rejection and his pervasive insecurity. This essay explores how Cyrano's insecurity permeates every aspect of his life, influencing his relationships, his decisions, and ultimately leading to his downfall. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Cyrano's insecurity and its manifestations Cyrano is a complex character who appreciates many things, especially literature and theater. His first notable appearance in the play is when he passionately defends his beloved theater by attempting to remove from the stage an actor, Montfleury, whom he despises. At first, Cyrano's motivations may seem unclear. Why does he care so much about Montfleury's performance? Why isn't he bothered by the prospect of making enemies because of his actions? As we delve deeper into Cyrano's character, it becomes apparent that his seemingly aggressive behavior stems from a deeper insecurity. Cyrano confides, “I love it when others hate me” (page 114). This paradoxical statement reveals his inner turmoil. While he may want people to despise 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, then, emerges as a manifestation of his self-hatred, leading him to deliberately make enemies, all stemming from his underlying insecurity. Unrequited Love for Roxane At the center of the story is Cyrano's secret, unrequited love for Roxane, a woman who deeply values ​​him as a friend. As time passes, Roxana falls in love with Cyrano's eloquent letters, unaware that they were written by him. Even after the death of his lover, Christian, and alleged author of the letters, Cyrano remains silent about his true feelings and identity. He continues to hover close to Roxane's life, dedicating fifteen long years to this silent and unfulfilled love. Cyrano's tragic fall is inextricably linked to his inability to express his true emotions. His silence and refusal to pursue the woman he loves turns him into an unhappy and lonely man. He becomes more and more 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, embodied 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 consequences.