Edmond Rostand Notes

Edmond Rostand

A French playwright born in 1868, known for his poetic plays and significant contributions to literature.

Artistic Family

Rostand was born into a family with artistic influences; his father was a poet and professor, and his uncle was a composer.

Education

Rostand studied law in Paris, although his true passion was literature, which he pursued despite his father's pressure.

Early Writing

He began writing plays and poems at a young age and was published by the age of 16.

Marriage

At 22, Rostand married Rosemonde Gerard, who was also a poet.

The Princess Far Away

A play produced by Rostand that starred the famous actress Sarah Bernhardt, who was a close friend of his.

Poetic Sentiments

Rostand's early works are characterized by their poetic sentiments and noble ideas.

Cyrano de Bergerac

Published in 1897, this play is considered Rostand's masterpiece and contrasts with the realism of contemporary plays.

Realism

A literary movement focusing on objective documentation of everyday life, often addressing social issues like poverty and crime.

Naturalism

An extension of realism that emphasizes the influence of natural laws on human life.

Universal Appeal

Cyrano de Bergerac resonated with audiences due to its authentic portrayal of the human condition.

Cyrano's Character

The protagonist, Cyrano, is depicted as honorable, self-sacrificing, and burdened by his appearance, particularly his large nose.

Setting

The play is set in France during the years 1640 to 1655.

The Eaglet

Rostand's second-best work following Cyrano de Bergerac.

Later Works

After The Eaglet, Rostand continued to write plays and patriotic poems until his health declined.

Death

Rostand died at the age of 50, six weeks after the end of World War I.