Loved it! ( )

A charming play about a man with a nose so big, he believes he cannot attain the love of his beautiful young cousin, Roxane. Accomplished in both poetry and swordplay, Cyrano prides himself on his honor and wit, foregoing any hope of requited love. However when Roxane confides in him that she has fallen in love with one of his new recruits, Cyrano takes the young man under his wing. At first, he tries to instruct the young man in romance but it soon becomes clear that he is hopeless and Cyrano is too infatuated to allow him to do a subpar job.

Instantly after Cyrano aids in the young couple's marriage the entire regiment is sent to battle. Even as they risk their lives, Cyrano continues to write to Roxane in the name of her beloved. Eventually, the are condemned to a suicide mission and only Cyrano survives. Although his young recruit begs him to return and explain his passion to Roxane, Cyrano never tells her. He dies by assassination after spending fourteen years regularly visiting Roxane in a convent. Only in his last moments does Roxane realize the truth. Cyrano dies confident in his honor and her love.

This play was funny and moving. Obviously, it's not great that Cyrano spends the whole play lying to the object of his affections, but it is romantic and it's honestly probably better for cousins not to marry. ( )

A play with clear drama and characters

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This version is complete and unabridged. Translation by Brian Hooker. ( )