Cyrano De Bergerac Panaches

In the introduction to Cyrano de Bergerac, Alfred Cohn defines panache as “an external quality which adds color and brilliancy to the internal things already worth having for their intrinsic value” (Rostand vi). He also says that there are three indicators or qualities of a person with panache—personal bravery, magnetism, and joy. This essay will show how Cyrano adheres to the characteristics or qualities associated with panache, them being personal bravery, magnetism, and joy.
Cyrano demonstrates personal bravery throughout the play in many different circumstances. Particularly, he shows personal bravery through how he demonstrates honor. An example of this is when he agrees to help Christian win over Roxanne, a very beautiful woman, with their joint actions. Christian says,” What would I not give for eloquence!” Cyrano responds by saying, “I’ll lend you some! Lend you
An example of magnetism that draws people to Cyrano throughout the play is his long nose. Particularly, in Act I when Cyrano shows up at the play at the Hotel de Bourgogne, he is mocked for his nose. Raganeau, head pastry cook at the bakery, mocks Cyrano’s nose by saying, “Prouder than the proudest of Gascony’s numberless haughty sons, he wears, above his Pulcinella ruff, a nose!.... Ah! My lords, what a nose is that nose! It is impossible, in presence of such a nose-bearer not to think : This, really is exaggeration! Then you will smile, a think of course, he’ll take it off. But Monsieur de Bergerac takes it off” (Act I. ii.). Another example of magnetism that draws people to Cyrano is his wit and skill as a writer. Particularly, Roxanne is drawn to Cyrano’s writing which is shown through her wanting Christian to write often at battle. Also, this is shown when she woos after reading “Christian’s” letters. Based on the evidence provided, it can be proved that Cyrano demonstrates a plethora of magnetism throughout the