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laurasarmientov 's review for:
Don Quixote: Translated by Edith Grossman
by Miguel de Cervantes
adventurous
challenging
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
There is arguably no more fun, reflective, and culturally relevant book than Don Quixote. Upon my second reading of this book through the interpretation of another translator, Edith Grossman, I discovered that she did an exceptional job of allowing new readers to immerse themselves in the world of Don Quixote. This book continues to hold its place as one of the finest works of fiction in history.
Alfonso’s commitment to his role and being one of the most delusional characters in the annals of literature serves as a comforting signal to anyone who doubts their destined path. Despite being labeled insane, Don Quixote ignores the skepticism around him and engages in problems he believes he can solve, feeling that his delusions are indeed making a difference. 'Don Quixote De La Mancha' delves into friendship, dreams, and politics within a story that is both hilarious and riveting, leaving readers eager for more. Despite the book’s density, I am convinced that every passage contributes to the reader’s deeper appreciation of Don Quixote’s madness.
From the initial quest with the brothers’ battle, through the recognition by the priest and innkeeper of the positive impact of chivalrous tales, to the final encounter with the duke and duchess before returning home, it’s a journey of 1000 pages that endears a flawed character to the reader, one who recognizes potential and is unwavering in his pursuit of it. Don Quixote exemplifies a person consumed by delusion who, at his core, is kind, brave, and impulsive. This raises the question: can Don Quixote be considered selfless or conscious within his state of delusion while pursuing the right actions in his fantasies? The narrative continues with Sancho Panza’s realistic (occasionally annoying) perspective. After being drawn into the fictional scenarios concocted by DQ’s mind, Panza also serves to ground him in the decisions that matter.
“By giving quickly one gives twice, they also say that what costs less is valued less.”
“Everything has a remedy except death.”
“People who look for adventure don’t always find good ones.”
Panza, perceived as dumb, slow, and incoherent by Don Quixote, actually steers him away from his most impulsive states and ultimately imparts some of the novel’s greatest life lessons. The dynamic between them perfectly illustrates the adage 'opposites attract'; without each other, Don Quixote would have never experienced true human connection, and Sancho Panza would have remained in his uneventful life as a farmer.
Cervantes has beautifully shown that a man of his time and political climate could write about women with respect and grace. Gender roles in this story are nuanced; women are respected and presented through wonderful imagery, voiced without male dominance.
“What your beauty erected was demolished by your actions; from the former, I understood that you were an angel, and from the latter, I know that you are a woman, go in peace.”
This is a masterful passage referencing Dulcinea’s fiction and the themes of delusion and passion in the book.
Cervantes’ dedication and inspiration in his writing are apparent and all the more impressive, knowing it was pioneering work. I will cherish this book for a lifetime, and I believe it’s a treasure that everyone should experience at least once.
Alfonso’s commitment to his role and being one of the most delusional characters in the annals of literature serves as a comforting signal to anyone who doubts their destined path. Despite being labeled insane, Don Quixote ignores the skepticism around him and engages in problems he believes he can solve, feeling that his delusions are indeed making a difference. 'Don Quixote De La Mancha' delves into friendship, dreams, and politics within a story that is both hilarious and riveting, leaving readers eager for more. Despite the book’s density, I am convinced that every passage contributes to the reader’s deeper appreciation of Don Quixote’s madness.
From the initial quest with the brothers’ battle, through the recognition by the priest and innkeeper of the positive impact of chivalrous tales, to the final encounter with the duke and duchess before returning home, it’s a journey of 1000 pages that endears a flawed character to the reader, one who recognizes potential and is unwavering in his pursuit of it. Don Quixote exemplifies a person consumed by delusion who, at his core, is kind, brave, and impulsive. This raises the question: can Don Quixote be considered selfless or conscious within his state of delusion while pursuing the right actions in his fantasies? The narrative continues with Sancho Panza’s realistic (occasionally annoying) perspective. After being drawn into the fictional scenarios concocted by DQ’s mind, Panza also serves to ground him in the decisions that matter.
“By giving quickly one gives twice, they also say that what costs less is valued less.”
“Everything has a remedy except death.”
“People who look for adventure don’t always find good ones.”
Panza, perceived as dumb, slow, and incoherent by Don Quixote, actually steers him away from his most impulsive states and ultimately imparts some of the novel’s greatest life lessons. The dynamic between them perfectly illustrates the adage 'opposites attract'; without each other, Don Quixote would have never experienced true human connection, and Sancho Panza would have remained in his uneventful life as a farmer.
Cervantes has beautifully shown that a man of his time and political climate could write about women with respect and grace. Gender roles in this story are nuanced; women are respected and presented through wonderful imagery, voiced without male dominance.
“What your beauty erected was demolished by your actions; from the former, I understood that you were an angel, and from the latter, I know that you are a woman, go in peace.”
This is a masterful passage referencing Dulcinea’s fiction and the themes of delusion and passion in the book.
Cervantes’ dedication and inspiration in his writing are apparent and all the more impressive, knowing it was pioneering work. I will cherish this book for a lifetime, and I believe it’s a treasure that everyone should experience at least once.