Les Romanesques: comédie en trois actes en vers

by Edmond Rostand

"Les Romanesques: comédie en trois actes en vers" by Edmond Rostand is a comedic play written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around two young lovers, Sylvette and Percinet, who are caught in a situation defined by their feuding families, reminiscent of classical tales of star-crossed lovers. As their secret romance unfolds, themes of love, societal expectations, and the tension between familial duty and personal desire emerge. The opening of the play introduces us to Percinet and Sylvette, who engage in playful romantic banter across a dividing wall in their families' parks. While reading poetry together, they confess their love despite their fathers' hatred for each other. Percinet expresses a desire for their romance to unfold in a more adventurous, "romanesque" fashion, setting the tone for the play’s exploration of love's complexities. Sylvette shares her fears about their families' opposition, yet their affection remains strong, hinting at both the comedic and dramatic struggles they will face as they navigate the expectations placed upon them. As they dream of a more romantic narrative for their love story, they inadvertently set the stage for comedic misunderstandings and escapades to follow.