Don Quixote by Cervantes

 Primary Elements in FICTION

• Point of View (time/place/reason)

• Appearance and Reality (layers of fact/fiction)

• Tone (atmosphere/mood)

• Character (identification/psychology) characterization through narrative; actions; dialogue; monologue; stereotypes

• Plot (structure of action) and Storyline (interweaving, interrelated events)

• Themes (overriding concepts)

• Symbolism (richer meaning) and Irony

• Language (palette)

DIRECTIONS: For this assignment, read the chapters listed below in an unabridged edition of Don Quixote in any language or translation, including the original Spanish.  Be prepared to discuss these sections of Don Quixote (in English).

•  Introduction and Chapters 1-13  [The Character of the Knight through Goatherd's Story]

• Chapters 22-24  [Liberation of Galley Slaves; Sierra Morena]

• Chapters 27-29  [Cardenio's Story; The Knight Rescued]

• Chapters 36-41  [Further Inn Adventures; The Captive's Tale]

To assist you in your reading, use the following POINTS TO PONDER as a guide.

1) Describe the structure of the work.  Who is telling the story; where is it set; when does action occur; and what is Cervantes' purpose in writing the novel?  What are the recurring themes in Don Quixote; what is Cervantes telling us, and does Quixote agree with him?

2) What is authentic and how does the Cervantes convince you the story is realistic?  Are there any points in the narrative when you believe the story is true AND what is fictional?  What bearing does that have on your enjoyment of this literary experience?

3) What is the mood:  serious, dramatic, frightening, whimsical, sad, humorous?

4) Are the characters realistic?  Are relationships realistic?  Are characters more or less believable when put into the context of other characters?  Describe the relationship of Quixote and Sancho.

5) Are there any symbols?  or twists of fate?  To what does Quixote give credit for his misfortunes?  How does Quixote deal with crossroads?

6) Describe the language; how is it different from other books or novels you have read?  When does Cervantes use more poetic language?