And, just as the viper does not deserve to be blamed for the ponzoña he has, since with her he kills, for having given her nature, neither do I deserve to be rebuked for being beautiful; That the beauty in honest woman is like the fired fire or as the acute sword, that neither he burns nor she cuts to whom they do not approach.
In "Don Quijote of La Mancha," Cervantes presents the idea that beauty, much like a viper's poison, is a natural attribute that should not be condemned. The analogy emphasizes that just as the serpent cannot be held liable for its lethal venom, a woman should not be judged or scorned for her beauty. This perspective suggests that beauty is inherent and neutral, and it should not be a basis for blame or criticism.
The text further likens beauty to fire and a sword, illustrating that it does not harm those who do not engage with it. An honest woman's beauty is akin to a talent or a quality that can either enchant or challenge, depending on how it is approached. In this way, Cervantes advocates for a recognition of beauty as something that exists independently of the intentions of others, urging an understanding that it should not be misused or misinterpreted.
