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September 11, 2026Short & citedBlog
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Screen & Stage • Literature

Don Quixote

Don Quixote is a Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes, first published in two parts in 1605 and 1615.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

Don Quixote is a Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes, published in two parts in 1605 and 1615. It is widely regarded as a foundational work of Western literature and often called the first modern novel.

What it is

The novel follows Alonso Quixano, who renames himself Don Quixote and sets out as a knight-errant with his squire Sancho Panza. Originally written as a parody of chivalric romances, it blends comedy, idealism, and social commentary.

Why it matters

Don Quixote is considered a prototype of the modern novel due to its narrative complexity and layered character voices. It has influenced countless writers and remains a cornerstone of Western literary studies, including in Canadian schools.

Key details

The book was published in two parts (1605 and 1615) during Spain's Golden Age. Its main characters—Don Quixote and Sancho Panza—have become archetypes. The term 'quixotic' derives from the protagonist's impractical idealism.

In short

  • Often considered the first modern novel.
  • A parody of chivalric romance with enduring literary influence.
  • Central characters: Don Quixote and Sancho Panza.
  • Gave rise to the adjective 'quixotic'.
Canadian angle

Don Quixote is widely taught and referenced in Canadian secondary and post-secondary literature studies as a cornerstone of European and world literary history.

Quick questions

What is Don Quixote?
A Spanish novel by Miguel de Cervantes, published in two parts in 1605 and 1615.
Why is Don Quixote important?
It is widely seen as a foundational work of Western literature and often called the first modern novel.
What does 'quixotic' mean?
It refers to impractical, idealistic behaviour, derived from the character Don Quixote.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Quixote
    Supports: Basic bibliographic facts: title, author, publication in 1605 and 1615, significance as a foundational work.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Don-Quixote-novel
    Supports: Author, publication dates, parody of chivalric romances, plot overview, and literary significance.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Don-Quixote-fictional-character
    Supports: Character significance, meaning of 'quixotic,' and importance in literary history.
  4. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/literature-and-arts/literature-other-modern-languages/spanish-and-portuguese-literature/don-quixote
    Supports: Characters, publication chronology, and broad literary context.
  5. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Miguel-de-Cervantes
    Supports: Cervantes biography and authorship of Don Quixote.