Since classical times, literary works have been classified as belonging to general types, which were variously defined. In literature, the broadest division is between poetry, prose, drama and feature film. Within which there are further divisions, such as, tragedy and comedy within the category of drama. The drama, Cyrano de Bergerac, by Edmond Rostand was used as a basis for the movie Roxanne. The content is presented differently, because of a different audience, nevertheless, the plot is fundamentally the same. The themes and value systems are comparable, with a constant theme of unrequited love, unselfishness and body image, all of which are displayed by the protagonist in both texts; however, the characters differ between genre. In looking at how the content of a text is presented differently according to the genre, there are classifications, categories or groups of texts which have familiar or instantly recognisable patterns, techniques or conventions, to be examined in the following. These include, setting, themes, narrative, characterisation and iconography. The original text, Cyrano de Bergerac, is a drama, whereas the interpretation, Roxanne, is a fea

ture film. The two texts have many similarities, both displaying common themes and values, including characters features, both physically and emotionally. However, the very use of a different genre has impacted the meaning made from the texts and how the content is presented, especially the conclusion, as we shall later examine.

An audience acknowledging the expectations and outcomes set by classifications in literature, which define genres and sub-genres ascertains the importance of genre. Dramatic pieces of this period were often written in romance languages such as French and Latin. At this time, drama was a popular genre often incorporating poetry and prose. Many dramas were in the form of tragedies, tragic comedies and romances. The plots of plays were often based upon the exploits of well known characters. Cyrano de Bergerac was originally written in French and has been translated into English. The plot is typical of its time incorporating bravery, swordsmanship, gallantry and unrequited love. In conforming within the common and expected genre, for example where and when it is set and the characters’ morals and values, the plot and theme is accepted. Roxanne was set in 1987 and if the protagonist, C. D. Bates, were to follow the same morals and values as Cyrano, audience expectations and acceptance of the plot would be unconventional.

“You love the little birds, I think? I see you’ve managed with a fond research

The themes of a text are depicted by its’ consistency in conforming within a sub-genre’s expectations, also the text’s characterisation and value systems concerning the setting. The play Cyrano de Bergerac is a tragic romance of its time; the themes derived are those formed from expectations of that particular genre. For example, the main theme of unrequited love is common for the chosen sub-genre, romance, and its time. Cyrano, in the modern world, would not conceal the truth about his love and dedication, even after the death of Christian. This is only typical of the value systems of that time. Likewise, in Christian’s time, it would not be permitted for him to run away with another woman, as Chris (his corresponding character in Roxanne) did. Therefore the shift in genre and setting clearly outlines barriers and expectations, which also allow for meaning to be mad

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