Here's what we know about the historical Cyrano:
* Born Savinien de Cyrano de Bergerac in 1619, he was a French soldier, playwright, and poet.
* He was a swashbuckling and eccentric figure known for his wit, bravery, and boastful personality.
* He served in the French army and even claimed to have fought in duels, though the details are disputed.
* Cyrano was also a prolific writer, penning satirical plays and philosophical works. His most famous work is "The Comic History of the States and Empires of the Moon," a science fiction novel that explored themes of lunar exploration and social commentary.
* He died in 1655, possibly from a duel or an accident.
While he was known for his swordsmanship and wit, there's no evidence that Cyrano had a large nose or that he used another man's charm to win the affections of a woman, as depicted in Rostand's play.
The real Cyrano de Bergerac was a more complex figure than the romanticized version. He was a skilled swordsman and a sharp intellect with a penchant for satire and philosophical musings. Though the play may not accurately reflect his life, it captures the essence of his bold personality and his unconventional spirit.