Don Quixote: Chivalry Then and Now

Type :

School essay

Pages :

2 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

10/08/2007

Category :

Philosophy & literature

Sub category :

Literature

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Summary :

Introduction
Don Quixote: A man of considerable wealth
Highlighting key point in the novel through two adventures
Simple courtesy in todays world
Conclusion

Abstract

"A manifestation of any of these qualities: bravery, courtesy, honor." This is the definition of the world chivalry as found in the dictionary. Though it was first coined during the Medieval Age, the idea still hold true today. One of the greatest books of chivalry is Miguel de Cervantes's don quixote. The hero of the story, don quixote, rides into the world to correct the evils that have befallen society. Over the course of his journeys, he routinely mistakes situations and tries to help where his assistance is not needed, usually resulting in creating more problems for the victim. He is driven by the idea of chivalry and idea that had been imbedded in his mind from the books he has read about knights of old. By showing different instances how quixote makes things worse and not better, Cervantes both glorifies and pokes fun at the notion of chivalry. However, as a reader, one can not admire a man who leaves behind is home to help others in the world. Even if he creates and imaginary problem out of nothing, the reader still recognizes that he genuinely tries and help, as opposed to just sitting back and watching the world go by. In today's society, quixote would feel out of place, not only for his dress and manner of speaking, but also because the world today lacks the kind of people who would go out of their way to help someone else. It appears that many people today or so wrapped up in their own lives that they do not take the time to help others. Thought Cervantes' book was written centuries ago, the chivalric qualities of honor, courtesy, and bravery displayed by quixote are ones that are lacking in today's society.