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nineinchnails's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
the first half was pretty repetitive but it was genuinely funny and if you ignore the sexism and racism it holds up fairly well considering it was written like 400 years ago. i wouldn’t say this was a life changing book but i really enjoyed it and it was so interesting to see how much of it has influenced other works!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Mental illness, Violence, and Schizophrenia/Psychosis
Moderate: Racial slurs, Misogyny, Death, Racism, Sexism, Injury/Injury detail, and Islamophobia
Minor: Animal death, Deportation, Adult/minor relationship, Rape, Sexual assault, Slavery, and War
skand_prateek's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote" is a literary masterpiece that transcends time. A brilliant satire that delves into the contrast between reality and illusion, offering a profound exploration of human nature, perception, and the transformative power of imagination. Alonso Quixano, driven mad by his extensive reading of chivalric romances, adopts the persona of Don Quixote and embarks on a quest to revive chivalry in a world that has moved beyond such ideals. Cervantes masterfully plays with the blurred lines between sanity and madness, creating a poignant commentary on the power of literature to shape one's perception of reality.
The novel's structure is quite innovative, with Cervantes employing a metafictional approach.Characters are aware of the existence of the first part of the novel, and this self-awareness adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Through this metafictional lens, Cervantes explores the relationship between authorship, storytelling, and the impact of literature on both characters and readers. Cervantes' characterization is another highlight of "Don Quixote." The characters are multi-dimensional, with Don Quixote himself embodying the tension between idealism and pragmatism. Sancho Panza, his loyal squire, provides a counterpoint with his earthly wisdom, contributing to the novel's rich tapestry of human experience. The novel is not merely a satire; it also serves as a reflection on the changing social and cultural landscape of early 17th-century Spain. Cervantes infuses his work with subtle social commentary, addressing issues such as class structure, gender roles, and the impact of technological advancements on society.
The novel's structure is quite innovative, with Cervantes employing a metafictional approach.
nothing7's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
ayla81's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
1.0
vortimer's review against another edition
3.0
The first modern novel is a somewhat rambling satire, and I found it a bit mean spirited. Quixote and Sancho Panza are not especially sympathetic, especially Panza, and are the butt of elaborate cruel jokes by people they encounter, which makes for uncomfortable reading.
marianacholico's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
1.75
dianashadel's review against another edition
3.0
Part one rocked, part two was slow. I reference this book often and the overall plot is hilarious to think about.
bookworm_vevans's review against another edition
It was written in a way I didn't enjoy, and the main character is so delusional that it makes the book hard to stomach.