Don Quixote Flashcards

Study Notes

Don Quixote - Key Concepts and Characters

Don Quixote names his horse Rocinante, symbolizing his idealism and transformation.
When naming his horse, Don Quixote considers both previous and present status, and aims for a name that is high sounding to reflect nobility.
A simple change in name can drastically alter Don Quixote's identity, suggesting that identity is tied to self-perception.
Aldonza Loreno is a farm girl who serves as Don Quixote's romantic interest; she represents his earthly desires amidst his lofty ideals.
The overarching theme of fantasy in Don Quixote emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's dreams and aspirations.
Don Quixote’s actions are driven by an overactive imagination, influenced by the chivalric tales he reads, leading to a distorted perception of reality.
To persuade Sancho Panza to become his squire, Don Quixote promises him an island, a promise he cannot fulfill due to lack of resources and realistic means as a knight.
Don Quixote sees fighting windmills as a duty, driven by his delusions of chivalry against perceived foes.
The windmills are deemed worthy foes by Don Quixote because they possess arms that swing, which he misinterprets as danger.
Sancho Panza serves as a supportive and sensible squire, providing balance to Don Quixote's idealism with grounded perspective.
Sancho remains loyal to Don Quixote primarily to prevent him from being alone and suffering, exhibiting friendship and compassion.
A frame story is characterized by enclosing multiple narratives within it, connecting various stories through a larger overarching plot.