Reviews

Don Quixote (Oxford Illustrated Classics) by Miguel de Cervantes, Victor G. Ambrus, Michael Harrison

skand_prateek's review against another edition

adventurous challenging funny inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Miguel de Cervantes' "Don Quixote" is a literary masterpiece that transcends time. A brilliant satire that delves into the contrast between reality and illusion, offering a profound exploration of human nature, perception, and the transformative power of imagination. Alonso Quixano, driven mad by his extensive reading of chivalric romances, adopts the persona of Don Quixote and embarks on a quest to revive chivalry in a world that has moved beyond such ideals. Cervantes masterfully plays with the blurred lines between sanity and madness, creating a poignant commentary on the power of literature to shape one's perception of reality.
The novel's structure is quite innovative, with Cervantes employing a metafictional approach.

Characters are aware of the existence of the first part of the novel, and this self-awareness adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Through this metafictional lens,

Cervantes explores the relationship between authorship, storytelling, and the impact of literature on both characters and readers. Cervantes' characterization is another highlight of "Don Quixote." The characters are multi-dimensional, with Don Quixote himself embodying the tension between idealism and pragmatism. Sancho Panza, his loyal squire, provides a counterpoint with his earthly wisdom, contributing to the novel's rich tapestry of human experience. The novel is not merely a satire; it also serves as a reflection on the changing social and cultural landscape of early 17th-century Spain. Cervantes infuses his work with subtle social commentary, addressing issues such as class structure, gender roles, and the impact of technological advancements on society.

nothing7's review against another edition

adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

ayla81's review against another edition

adventurous funny relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? N/A
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

1.0

phielanthropy's review against another edition

4.0

konyol.

vortimer's review against another edition

3.0

The first modern novel is a somewhat rambling satire, and I found it a bit mean spirited. Quixote and Sancho Panza are not especially sympathetic, especially Panza, and are the butt of elaborate cruel jokes by people they encounter, which makes for uncomfortable reading.

marianacholico's review against another edition

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

1.75

dianashadel's review against another edition

3.0

Part one rocked, part two was slow. I reference this book often and the overall plot is hilarious to think about.

bookworm_vevans's review against another edition

It was written in a way I didn't enjoy, and the main character is so delusional that it makes the book hard to stomach. 

elfiepants's review against another edition

adventurous challenging funny slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

had42's review against another edition

I liked the book, it's funny and has a good idea behind it but I read it translated to hebrew and the translation made it very hard to understand and the amount of effort I had to put in to understand what was written just wasn't worth it.