Cyrano de Bergerac
Discuss each question in your group of two or three. You should use your books to help you give specific answers. After discussing thoroughly, each student should write down the answer on his or her own paper.
1. Reflect on the line: “It seems too logical—I have missed everything, even my death” (191).
2. Reflect on the line “I never loved but one man in my life, and I have lost him twice” (193).
3. Explain the symbolism of the blood and tears on the farewell letter.
4. What is ironic about the words of Cyrano’s farewell letter?
5. Does Cyrano actually die in vain, without reaching any of his long term goals? (i.e. Does he gain Roxane’s love? Does he die the way he wants? Does he gain fame?)
6. Reflect on the line: “I would not have you mourn any the less that good, brave, noble Christian; but perhaps—I ask you only this—when the great cold gathers around my bones, that you may give a double meaning to your widow’s weeds. And the tears that you let fall for him may be for a little—my tears” (194).
7. Who does Cyrano fight as he dies?
8. Explain the symbolism of the white plume. (Give several possible answers.)