SCENE 4.IX.

In this stirring scene from “Cyrano de Bergerac,” the depth of Roxane’s love for Christian is profoundly revealed, contrasting sharply with the superficial adoration he feared was the basis of their relationship. Christian, grappling with insecurity, expressively yearns for Roxane’s love, not for the external beauty or wit he is known for, but for a connection that transcends these surface traits. Roxane passionately assures him that her love is rooted not in his physical allure or eloquence but in the essence of his being—his “true self” that she adores.

Roxane’s declaration that she would continue to love Christian even if he were to lose his external charm or become physically unattractive prompts a deeply emotional response from him. This moment of vulnerability and revelation leads Christian to realize the purity and depth of Roxane’s feelings, which are not conditional on physical attributes or superficial charm. Despite this, Christian’s concern for the welfare of the cadets, who are about to face death, shows his inherent nobility. He urges Roxane to share a moment of kindness and attention with the soldiers, a gesture that not only highlights Christian’s selflessness but also provides a poignant reminder of the impending tragedy they are all facing.

The scene is beautifully framed by the interaction between Christian and Roxane, and Christian’s push for Roxane to comfort the cadets, thereby juxtaposing personal love with the broader themes of honor, duty, and the fleeting nature of life. It’s a moving exploration of love’s ability to look beyond the physical and superficial, focusing instead on the enduring and immutable essence of a person.