Chantecler

First published in 1910, "Chantecler" is the chef-d'oeuvre of Edmond Rostand's mature years, now deservedly being rediscovered in France.

Written in typically lively verse, "Chantecler" contains some of Edmond Rostand's best lyrical writing, including the famous “Hymn to the Sun”. It also explores some of his favourite themes.

The play is notable in that all the characters are farmyard animals including the main protagonist, a chanticleer, or rooster. The play centres on the theme of idealism and spiritual sincerity, as contrasted with cynicism and artificiality. Much of the play satirises modernist artistic doctrines from Rostand's romanticist perspective.