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  • Essay / Complex character of Don Quixote

    Table of contentsIntroductionBody paragraphKnightly ideals and noble intentionsDelusional worldview and mental stateInfluence on others and societal impactConclusionIntroductionDon Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes is often touted as one of the greatest literary works of all times, and at its heart is one of the most iconic characters in literature: Don Quixote de la Mancha. This essay explores Don Quixote's multifaceted personality, examining his chivalrous ideals, his delusional worldviews, and his influence on those around him. By exploring these aspects, we better understand how Cervantes uses Don Quixote to criticize societal norms and human nature. The character of Don Quixote embodies both the nobility of idealism and the absurdity of impracticality, making him a timeless figure of study. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayBody ParagraphChivalric Ideals and Noble IntentionsDon Quixote is motivated by an unwavering commitment to the chivalric code, a set of ideals that were already considered antiquated by the time Cervantes wrote his novel. Inspired by romantic tales of knights-errant, Don Quixote aspires to revive the chivalric tradition, embarking on a quest to right wrongs and protect the powerless. His intentions are undeniably noble; he seeks to embody the virtues of bravery, honor and justice. However, his interpretation of these virtues is heavily influenced by the fictional tales he consumes, leading him to don old armor and declare himself a knight-errant. This commitment to outdated ideals, while admirable, also highlights the character's disconnection from reality. Don Quixote's pursuit of chivalry in a world that no longer values ​​it highlights the tension between idealism and practicality, a central theme in Cervantes' work. Delusional Worldview and Mental State One of the most intriguing aspects of Don Quixote's character is his delusional worldview. He perceives reality through the distorted prism of chivalric romance, confusing windmills with giants and inns with castles. This illusion is not simply a comedic device but a profound commentary on the power of self-deception and the human capacity for escapism. The Madness of Don Quixote, or Quixoteism as it has come to be known, serves as a vehicle for Cervantes to explore the boundaries between reality and imagination. While his actions are often absurd and result in physical injury, they also invite readers to question the nature of reality and the value of dreams. In a sense, Don Quixote's delusions allow him to live a life full of meaning and adventure, even if it has a fantastic basis. This duality between madness and wisdom makes Don Quixote a deeply complex character, because his madness is both his greatest fault and his most endearing quality. Influence on others and societal impact Despite his erroneous perception of reality, Don Quixote has a profound impact on those around him. , notably his faithful squire, Sancho Panza. Initially, Sancho follows Don Quixote for the promise of material gain, but over time he becomes truly devoted to his master. This transformation testifies to the charisma of Don Quixote and the contagious nature of his idealism. Through their interactions, Cervantes illustrates the contrast between Don Quixote's noble aspirations and Sancho's pragmatic approach to life. However, it is Sancho's gradual adoption of his master's ideals which highlights..