Symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors
used to represent abstract ideas or concepts.
Cyrano’s Nose
Cyrano’s nose is the most obvious symbol in
the play. Not only does it make him ugly, it characterizes Cyrano’s
main flaw: his lack of self-confidence and initiative in potential
encounters with love, and the deceptive actions he commits as a
consequence of this low self-esteem. His nose is the barrier between
him and love. Every time he opens his eyes, the nose is there, stretching out
into his field of vision. As the play progresses, Cyrano’s nose might
also be a symbol for society’s reliance on outer beauty, and its
inability to see inner beauty.
Cyrano’s Tears and Christian’s Blood
In Act V, when Roxane realizes Cyrano’s secret, she notices
that the tears on Christian’s letter are probably Cyrano’s tears.
Cyrano responds by deflecting her comment and stating that the blood
is Christian’s. This mixture of blood and tears on the final letter
symbolizes the melding of Cyrano and Christian into the romantic
hero. This combination helps Roxane realize their deception.
