"Don Quixote," written by Miguel de Cervantes, tells the story of an aging nobleman from La Mancha, who becomes so enamored with chivalric romances that he decides to become a knight-errant. He adopts the name Don Quixote and sets off on a series of adventures with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. Driven by a desire to revive chivalry, he often confuses reality with his romantic ideals, leading to comical and tragic situations.
Throughout the novel, Don Quixote faces various challenges and encounters a colorful cast of characters, including innkeepers, peasants, and other knights. His delusions of grandeur manifest in famous scenes, such as his battle with windmills, which he perceives as giants. The narrative simultaneously highlights his noble intentions and the folly of his misguided pursuits, serving as a critique of the romantic ideals of knighthood.
The novel's rich themes explore the nature of reality versus illusion, the conflict between idealism and pragmatism, and the impact of literature on perception. Cervantes' work is considered a foundational piece of Western literature, blending humor with profound philosophical insights, and has influenced countless authors and artists in the centuries since its publication.