Cyrano de Bergerac characters

Appears from the start

A Gascon soldier, poet, and swordsman famed equally for his wit, courage, and exceptionally large nose. He attacks pretension without regard for rank and refuses patronage that might limit his independence. Beneath his bravado, he privately loves his cousin Roxane but believes his appearance makes that love hopeless.

Also known as Madeleine Robin

Appears from the start

Cyrano's beautiful and intellectually exacting cousin, commonly known as Roxane. Admired by several men, she wants romantic feeling joined to eloquence and has the confidence to arrange a private meeting with Cyrano when she needs his help.

Appears from the start

A handsome young cadet newly arrived in Paris. He falls in love with Roxane at first sight but fears that his plain speech cannot satisfy a woman who prizes verbal brilliance. He is brave and sincere, though uneasy among the Gascon cadets.

Appears from the start

A powerful nobleman and military commander who is attracted to Roxane. Accustomed to influence and obedience, he treats Christian as a rival and can use his command of the Gascon cadets to press his suit.

Appears from the start

Cyrano's loyal friend and fellow soldier. More cautious and practical than Cyrano, he worries that Cyrano's pride and habit of making powerful enemies will eventually destroy him.

Appears from the start

A pastry cook who adores poetry and welcomes writers to his shop even when their appetite for his food harms his business. He is an enthusiastic admirer and friend of Cyrano.

Appears from the start

A poet and drinker who moves through Paris collecting news and enemies. When a large group is sent to attack him, Cyrano goes alone to defend him.

Appears from the start

An actor whose performance at the Hôtel de Bourgogne is halted by Cyrano, who has forbidden him to appear onstage. His humiliation triggers the public confrontation that establishes Cyrano's theatrical daring.

Appears from the start

A fashionable nobleman in de Guiche's circle. He insults Cyrano's nose and challenges him, becoming the opponent in a duel that Cyrano conducts while improvising a poem.

First appears in chapter 2

The captain of the Gascon cadets. He presides over the proud, unruly company to which Cyrano and Christian belong and values courage in his soldiers.

First appears in chapter 5

A nun at the convent where Roxane has withdrawn from society. She is one of the few people with whom Cyrano permits himself gentle teasing during his regular visits.