Overview
Synopsis
The Princess of Castile, known as the ’Infanta’, has fallen in love with Don Rodrigo, a man far below her station. To try to discourage her own affection for him, she has introduced him to her close friend Chimène, the daughter of the Count of Gormas. The two fall deeply in love, and everyone expects their fathers to accept this match and arrange their marriage.
Unknown to either the Infanta or Chimène, the King has announced that Don Rodrigo’s father, Don Diego, will become governor to the young prince, as a reward for his great service to the kingdom The Count is furious to learn that this honorable position will be going to a retired soldier, and that he has been overlooked. When Don Diego approaches the Count to propose that they strengthen his position further, by uniting his son with the Count’s daughter, the Count is appalled. He deals Don Diego a terrible insult. Don Diego raises his sword at the challenge, but his old age has weakened his arm and it drops to the ground.
This moment changes everything for Don Rodrigo and Chimène. To restore his father’s honor, Don Rodrigo must challenge the Count. The Count dies at Rodrigo’s hand, leaving Chimène torn between wanting vengeance against Rodrigo, whilst still being completely in love with him. Can Chimène ever forgive the man she loves? Could she see him die? Either way, their future seems hopeless. How can the two young lovers protect the honor of their fathers, without causing themselves further pain?
Corneille’s Le Cid is a story of love, honor, and betrayal set in 11th century Spain, which has inspired many adaptations and retellings, including Massenet's well known opera Le Cid.
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Context
Despite the popularity of Corneille’s Le Cid, there are some who would claim the credit for this play’s greatness is not due to Corneille at all. Shortly after its first performance, at the Théâtre du Marais in Paris in 1637, Le Cid prompted an accusation of plagiarism. This French play seemed to be more than an adaptation of the Arabic and Christian legends about a great Spanish warrior known as ‘El Campeador’ (The Champion) and ‘Le Cid’ (The Lord). Rather, it was almost identical to
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Act One
Chimène is eager to know what her governess, Elvira, has learned of her father’s opinion of Don Rodrigo. Elvira has been very diplomatic in talking to Don Gomez, Chimène’s father, about the subject. She knows that Elvira is in love with Don Rodrigo, but with Don Sancho also paying her attention, Elvira has indicated to Don Gomez that he must choose the right husband for his daughter. Nevertheless, she is happy to report that Don Gomez does speak favorably of Don Rodrigo, so things
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Character Portrayals
See StageAgent members who have performed roles in Le Cid.
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Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
The Académie Française is France’s official council on the French language, founded in 1635. It regulates grammar, vocabulary, and usage, shaping literary and theatrical traditions. Its authority has influenced how plays are written, translated, and preserved in French culture.
Dramatic rules from Aristotle’s *Poetics* prescribing unity of time, place, and action in classical tragedy.
Works not protected by copyright and available for free use or adaptation. Many classical plays, including Shakespeare's, fall into the public domain.
A genre blending elements of tragedy and comedy, often leaving audiences in emotional or thematic tension.
Quizzes
Guide Written By:
Wendy Silvester
Singer and vocal coach based in the UK.