Cyrano de Bergerac Study Guide

Cyrano De Bergerac begins as a play within a play. It begins as if the cast members are entering the "great hall" of the Hotel de Borugogne, the oldest and most famous stage in Paris during that time. The first scene involves "the audience" arriving to see La Clorise, by Balthazar Baro which was staged at the actual Hotel de Bourgogne in 1631. The year Cyrano De Bergerac takes place is described as being 1640, thus, the period is set, by Rostand, as taking place in the 17^th century, during the real De Bergerac's lifetime. Many attendees, who have arrived early, are proceeding to drink, gamble and carry on, talking and singing, while waiting for the play to begin. Chaos and comedy ensue as the dark hall fills up with cavaliers, pickpockets, lackeys, marquises and other spectators. Cuigy enters and talks with a Marquis just before Christian and Lignière enter, arm and arm, and thus ends the first scene. (read more)