In this excerpt from "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes, the protagonist expresses his deep admiration for Dulcinea del Toboso, idealizing her as the epitome of beauty and virtue. He elevates her status by referring to her as the peak of discretion and the embodiment of goodness, suggesting that she is a paragon of all that is admirable in the world. This fanatical devotion showcases the theme of romantic idealism woven throughout the narrative.
Here, the protagonist's obsessive affection reflects his quest for chivalric ideals in a world that often mocks such pursuits. By invoking her name and asking about her well-being, he reveals not only his passionate love but also his desire to connect with an unobtainable ideal. This blend of lofty admiration and unattainable love drives the story's exploration of reality versus illusion.