SCENE 4.X.

In a compelling scene fraught with tension and emotion, Christian presses Cyrano to let Roxane choose between them, desiring her love to be for his own essence, not Cyrano’s poetic soul. As Christian steps away, Cyrano and Roxane engage in a poignant discussion about unconditional love, wherein Roxane declares her love for Christian would persist regardless of his appearance. This revelation stirs Cyrano, hinting at a possibility of love for himself, but this hope is brutally quashed by news of an impending battle climax.

As Roxane presses for the cause of Cyrano’s distress, a rapid succession of cannon reports signal the battle’s commencement. Amidst the chaos, the arrival of cadets carrying the mortally wounded Christian shifts the scene to one of tragic revelation. Roxane, devastated, learns of her husband’s injury and clings to a letter, believing it from Christian, not realizing Cyrano’s hand in it. As the battlefield clamors for attention, Cyrano, torn between his secret love and duty, prepares to join his fellow soldiers, signaling a valiant if desperate fight ahead.

Christian, in his dying moments, is made to believe by Cyrano that Roxane’s love for him is untouched by his appearance, a noble lie by Cyrano to comfort him. Roxane’s grief at Christian’s death is profound, as she lavishes praise on the soul and intellect she believes were Christian’s, unaware that Cyrano is the true source.

The imminent battle forces Cyrano to part from Roxane, entrusting her safety to De Guiche. A sense of duty and vengeance fuels Cyrano as he rallies the Gascons, using a kerchief from Roxane as a symbolic banner. Despite overwhelming odds, Cyrano leads a fearless charge, their defiance punctuating the air as they face the enemy’s ranks head-on, in a stark testament to their courage and Cyrano’s undying spirit.

This chapter paints a tragic tableau of love, valor, and self-sacrifice, as characters confront their deepest desires and fears amid the harsh realities of war, leaving an indelible mark on the narrative’s heart.