How we cite our quotes: (Act.Line)
Quote #13
CHRISTIAN
Oh, if I had words
To say what I have here!
CYRANO
If I could be
A handsome little Musketeer with eyes!
CHRISTIAN
Besides—you know Roxane—how sensitive—
One rough word, and the sweet illusion—gone!
CYRANO
I wish you might be my interpreter.
CHRISTIAN
I wish I had your wit—
CYRANO
Borrow it, then!
Your beautiful young manhood—lend me that,
And we two make one hero of romance! (II.553-560)
Christian’s cowardice with respect to his verbal abilities mirrors Cyrano’s doubts as to his own appearance. Both men are courageous, however.
Quote #14
CYRANO (calls)
Christian!
(CHRISTIAN enters.)
I have your theme—bring on your memory!—
Here is your chance now to surpass yourself,
No time to lose—Come! Look intelligent—
Come home and learn your lines.
CHRISTIAN
No.
CYRANO
What?
CHRISTIAN
I’ll wait
Here for Roxane.
CYRANO
What lunacy is this?
Come quickly!
CHRISTIAN
No, I say! I have had enough—
Taking my words, my letters, all from you—
Making our love a little comedy!
It was a game at first; but now—she cares…
Thanks to you. I am not afraid. I’ll speak
For myself now.
CYRANO
Undoubtedly!
CHRISTIAN
I will!
Why not? I am no such fool—you shall see!
Besides—my dear friend—you have taught me much.
I ought to know something… By God, I know
Enough to take a woman in my arms! (III.152-167)
Christian shows his mettle by wanting to speak for himself, though he knows his words are clumsy.
Quote #15
FIRST CADET (With a shrug)
Always the clever answer!
CYRANO
Always the answer—yes! Let me die so—
Under some rosy-golden sunset, saying
A good thing, for a good cause! By the sword,
The point of honor—by the hand of one
Worthy to be my foeman, let me fall—
Steel in my heart, and laughter on my lips! (IV.66-71)
Cyrano describes the way he wants to die: courageously and in battle with a worthy adversary. In some ways, he does indeed fulfill this desire—not by fighting with swords, but by fighting for love and honor.