Meaning: The quote "A large nose is in fact the sign of an affable man, good, courteous, witty, liberal, courageous, such as I am" is from the play "Cyrano de Bergerac" written by French poet and playwright Edmond Rostand. The play was first performed in 1897 and has since become one of the most famous works of French literature. The quote is spoken by the play's protagonist, Cyrano, who is known for his large nose and his wit.

In the context of the play, Cyrano is a skilled swordsman and poet with a prominent physical feature, his large nose, which he is often teased about. Despite this, Cyrano is confident and proud of his nose, using it as a symbol of his inner qualities. He believes that his nose is a reflection of his character, and he lists several positive traits such as being affable, good, courteous, witty, liberal, and courageous, which he believes are associated with having a large nose.

The quote is a testament to the idea that physical appearance does not define a person's worth or character. Cyrano's declaration challenges societal norms and expectations, suggesting that true virtue lies in one's actions and qualities rather than in superficial attributes. It also demonstrates Cyrano's self-assuredness and refusal to be defined or limited by his outward appearance.

Rostand's use of this quote in "Cyrano de Bergerac" serves to highlight Cyrano's complex character and his struggle with self-image and acceptance. Despite his physical insecurities, Cyrano is depicted as a multifaceted individual with a strong sense of honor and integrity. The quote encapsulates Cyrano's defiance of societal judgment and his insistence on being valued for his inner virtues rather than his external features.

Furthermore, the quote reflects the broader theme of appearance versus reality that runs throughout the play. Cyrano's belief in the positive attributes associated with his large nose challenges the audience to reconsider their preconceived notions about physical beauty and the true nature of human worth. Rostand uses Cyrano's character to convey a message of self-acceptance and the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to discover the true essence of an individual.

In conclusion, the quote "A large nose is in fact the sign of an affable man, good, courteous, witty, liberal, courageous, such as I am" from "Cyrano de Bergerac" by Edmond Rostand is a powerful declaration of self-worth and inner strength. It encapsulates Cyrano's defiance of societal norms and his insistence on being judged by his character rather than his physical appearance. Rostand's use of this quote serves to challenge the audience's perceptions of beauty and virtue, ultimately conveying a timeless message of self-acceptance and the importance of inner qualities.