Every generation has its own heroes that display, what they believe tobe, ideal characteristics.
While each is different in their own way, many ofthese role models share similar qualities. Most tend to have courage, strength,compassion, or another respected trait, but this is not necessarily why they winthe adoration of their followers. Cyrano De Bergerac is a perfect example of howmany protagonists win our allegiance because his sensibilities will not bedenied, because he lives life to the hilt, and because he is a victim of hissurroundings. If there was ever a figure who would not be denied his sensibilities, itis Cyrano. When lovers admit, “I’d die for you,” it is usually only a figure ofspeech. Cyrano actually crossed over enemy lines every day simply to mail loveletters.
He also confessed to her, “My mother made it clear that she didn’t findme pleasant to look at. I had no sister. Later, I dreaded the thought of seeingmockery in the eyes of a mistress. Thanks to you I’ve at least had a woman’sfriendship, a gracious presence to soften the harsh loneliness of my life.
“When Cyrano admits, “My heart always timidly hides its self behind my mind,” thereader can instantly relate to this dilemma but it is the fact that Cyrano isable to overcome it that makes him a hero. Not only is Cyrano filled with emotion, but he also goes out of his wayto live life to the fullest. Cyrano’s introduction to the reader definitelyleaves a lasting impression. Not only does he banish an actor from the theaterfor performing poorly, but he proceeds to recite poetry while dueling withanother member of the audience. Every moment of Cyrano’s life is filled withaction like this.
When he was informed that one hundred men were going to killhis friend, Lignire, he was thrilled with the idea of fighting all these men atonce, and, of course, he succeeded. How could anyone not love this man who takesCarpe Diem to its most extreme form?Also, Cyrano is a victim of his surroundings. This may be the onecharacteristic that completely wins over the reader. Cyrano’s most obvious flawis his grotesque nose, but this would not be so awful if the people around himdidn’t care. Knowing that he is the victim of a problem beyond his control, thereader can do nothing but sympathize with him. The epitome of this is his death.
His only wish in life was to dye noble . . . by the sword, but he again he ishurt by an outside force that he had no influence over. When he says, “Fate is agreat jester! I’ve been struck down, but from behind, in an ambush, by a lackeywielding a log! I’ve been consistent to the end, I’ve failed in everything, evenin my death,” the reader is completely won over. Perhaps the most impressivething about those we follow is that they’re human.
Again, Cyrano De Bergerac is the perfect example of how a hero wins theadoration of his followers. By showing his intense feelings, living life to thefullest, and still remaining human, he is able to win the heart of almost anyreader. Heroes have changed a lot over the years. When one looks at napoleonthey are hardly reminded of John Lennon. While different generations finddifferent qualities to be noble, there are some heroes, like Cyrano, who will beloved for all time.Category: English
