In what way is Christian s attempt to provoke Cyrano in front of the Cadets another instance of dramatic irony? STUDY QUESTIONS Act III 1. What piece of information does the audience know that a character on stage lacks? How does dramatic irony add to the tension in this scene? 2. Explain the dramatic irony in the scene between Cyrano and Roxane in the pastry shop. Dramatic irony can occur in both fiction and drama, but it is an especially effective way of building tension in drama. Do you think the agreement between Cyrano and Christian is practical? What problems do you foresee in it? * All questions and assignments from Appreciating Literature (NY: Scribner-Macmillan, 1984).Ģ LITERARY FOCUS: Dramatic Irony Dramatic irony is a form of irony that occurs when a character acts without knowing an important piece of information that the audience knows - for example, if the audience knows that a character is in danger, but the character does not know. Why do you think Cyrano makes his agreement with Christian? What might he hope to gain? 9. What does his offer to Cyrano reveal about De Guiche s attitude toward other people? What does Cyrano s refusal reveal about his attitude toward himself and his art? 8. What is your impression of Roxane from her conversation with Cyrano? How does she treat her cousin? Do you think she deserves his love? Explain. In referring to his triumph over a hundred men, Cyrano tells Roxane, Oh, I ve done better since then. Relate the terms of the private agreement between Cyrano and Christian concerning Roxane. What does Christian do to prove himself to the Cadets? 4. What news does she give him, and what promise does he make to her? 2.
Briefly relate Cyrano s conversation with Roxane in the beginning of Act II. Do you think pride like Cyrano s is foolish, or do you find it admirable? Why? STUDY QUESTIONS Act II 1. What does Cyrano mean when he says, I may not cut a stylish figure, but I hold my soul erect? List two actions that illustrate this statement. What does Cyrano s eagerness to take on the enemies of Ligniere reveal about him? 10. In his verbal battles in Act I, what skills and qualities does Cyrano display? 9. What does the fact that Cyrano gives away his money to refund the tickets show about him? 8.
What favor does Ligniere ask of Cyrano, and how does Cyrano respond? 7. What does Cyrano confide to Le Bret after the crowd leaves? How does the duenna s visit change his mood? 6.
List three of the comments Cyrano makes up about his nose. Briefly retell what happens when Montfleury tries to begin the play. Prior to his entry on stage, what do we learn of Cyrano s appearance and personality from the descriptions of his friends? 3.
Why has Christian come to the play? What concern does he express to Ligniere? 2. 1 Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand* STUDY QUESTIONS Act I 1.
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