In Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's "Don Quixote of La Mancha," the character of Hidalgo spends a significant portion of his idle time engaging with literature. This reading habit underscores his deep fascination with tales of chivalry and adventure. The time he dedicates to books reflects a longing for a life filled with heroism and valor, which ultimately drives him to pursue his own adventures as a self-proclaimed knight-errant.

The narrative illustrates how Hidalgo's reading not only shapes his character but also leads him into a fantastical world where reality and imagination intertwine. His idleness, although seemingly unproductive, fosters his dreams and aspirations, prompting his quest to revive chivalry. Through this depiction, Cervantes comments on the impact of literature on the human psyche and how it can inspire individuals to seek meaning beyond their ordinary lives.