1. “Cyrano de Bergerac” Background Information
By: Edmond Rostand
You do not need to write down what is in italics.

2. About the Author Edmond Rostand
Born April 1, 1868 in Marseilles, France
Always wanted to be a writer
Married Rosmond in 1890
Wedding gift was a book of poems
Youngest member ever elected to the Academie Francaise (one of the highest honors given to scholars of letters) in 1901

3. About the Author In 1914, he volunteered for the army. He was rejected
Instead, he wrote patriotic poems
Died in 1918 in Paris. He was 50.

4. Rostand’s 1890s
“Rostand’s talent was to create a heroic character in Cyrano who transcends time.”

5. About the Story Written in 1897
Before the play opened, Rostand said to the star of the play, one of France’s leading actor’s, “Pardon me for having involved you in a disastrous adventure.”
-performed 500 times in one year
Play based on the real Cyrano de Bergerac because he was Rostand’s favorite author

6. About the Story
Play is responsible for adding “panache” to English language
Flair, individual style, verve, pizazz
Has been made into movies, songs, and tv shows
Rostand was sued by an American for copying his play from him; judge permanently banned play from U.S.

7. Why was it a success? Instant success Modern classic
Author and cast were doubtful of play’s success but audience loved the beautiful language of poetry and the intriguing story
Known for “unforgettable hero” and “romantic spirit”
Combines romance, heroic action, and humor

9. The Real Cyrano

10. About the Real Cyrano Lived from 1619-1655
Best friend was Henry LeBret
Joined the army and was wounded in the battle twice- sword through the neck
Helped his friend Lingiere fight 100 men and win
Hated an actor named Montfleury
Died at 35 years old of a fatal disease

11. On patrons…
“ Dedicate my works to men of wealth?/Become a sedulous ape, a fool who waits/For some official’s patronizing smile?/No, thank you, …I prefer to sing, to dream, to play/To travel light, to be at liberty.”
-Cyrano, the character

12. Copyright
Information compiled from