Don Quixote

Don Quixote is a Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes, first published in two parts in 1605 and 1615.

Don Quixote is a Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes, first published in two parts in 1605 and 1615. It is widely regarded as a foundational work of Western literature and is often described as the first modern novel. The book follows the self-styled knight Don Quixote and his squire Sancho Panza as they pursue chivalric adventures.

Publication and authorship

Don Quixote was written by Miguel de Cervantes and first appeared in 1605, with a second part published in 1615. It was originally published in Spanish and later became one of the best-known novels in world literature.

Plot and characters

The story centres on Alonso Quixano, who adopts the identity of Don Quixote and seeks adventure as a knight-errant. He is accompanied by Sancho Panza, whose practical outlook contrasts with Quixote’s idealism.

Literary significance

The novel is often described as a prototype of the modern novel because of its narrative complexity and varied character voices. It is also regarded as one of the most influential works of the Spanish literary tradition.

Themes and interpretation

Scholars and reference works commonly describe the novel as a satire of chivalric romance, though it has also been interpreted as a study of idealism, illusion, and social commentary. Its meaning has remained open to multiple critical traditions.