Every generation has its own heroes that display, what they believe to be, ideal
characteristics. While each is different in their own way, many of these role models share
similar qualities. Most tend to have courage, strength, compassion, or another respected
trait, but this is not necessarily why they win the adoration of their followers. Cyrano
De Bergerac is a perfect example of how many protagonists win our allegiance because his
sensibilities will not be denied, because he lives life to the hilt, and because he is a
victim of his surroundings.
If there was ever a figure who would not be denied his sensibilities, it is Cyrano.
When lovers admit, "I'd die for you," it is usually only a figure of speech.
Cyrano actually crossed over enemy lines every day simply to mail love letters. He also
confessed to her, "My mother made it clear that she didn't find me pleasant to look
at. I had no sister. Later, I dreaded the thought of seeing mockery in the eyes of a
mistress. Thanks to you I've at least had a woman's friendship, a gracious presence to
soften the harsh loneliness of my life. " When Cyrano admits, "My heart always
timidly hides its self behind my mind," the reader can instantly relate to this
dilemma but it is the fact that Cyrano is able to overcome it that makes him a hero. Not
only is Cyrano filled with emotion, but he also goes out of his way to live life to the
fullest. Cyrano's introduction to the reader definitely leaves a lasting impression. Not
only does he banish an actor from the theater for performing poorly, but he proceeds to
recite poetry while dueling with another member of the audience.
Every moment of Cyrano's life is filled with action like this. When he was informed
that one hundred men were going to kill his friend, Ligni�re, he was thrilled with the
idea of fighting all these men at once, and, of course, he succeeded. How could anyone not
love this man who takes Carpe Diem to its most extreme form? Also, Cyrano is a victim of
his surroundings. This may be the one characteristic that completely wins over the reader.
Cyrano's most obvious flaw is his grotesque nose, but this would not be so awful if the
people around him didn't care. Knowing that he is the victim of a problem beyond his
control, the reader can do nothing but sympathize with him. The epitome of this is his
death. His only wish in life was to dye noble . . . by the sword, but he again he is hurt
by an outside force that he had no influence over. When he says, "Fate is a great
jester! I've been struck down, but from behind, in an ambush, by a lackey wielding a log!
I've been consistent to the end, I've failed in everything, even in my death," the
reader is completely won over.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about those we follow is that they're human. Again,
Cyrano De Bergerac is the perfect example of how a hero wins the adoration of his
followers. By showing his intense feelings, living life to the fullest, and still
remaining human, he is able to win the heart of almost any reader. Heroes have changed a
lot over the years. When one looks at napoleon they are hardly reminded of John Lennon.
While different generations find different qualities to be noble, there are some heroes,
like Cyrano, who will be loved for all time.
