Don Quijote

Cervantes' "Don Quixote" is considered the first modern novel and one of the most important works of world literature. The plot follows the impoverished Spanish nobleman Alonso Quijano who, obsessed with reading chivalric novels, loses touch with reality. He proclaims himself the knight-errant Don Quixote and, on his skinny horse Rocinante and accompanied by the faithful but down-to-earth peasant Sancho Panza, sets off on adventures to defend the weak with his right hand, right injustices and earn the love of the fictional lady Dulcinea de Toboso. Through a series of comic and tragic episodes - the most famous of which is the attack on windmills that he sees as giants - the author builds a deep satire on the then popular chivalric novels. However, beneath the layer of parody and humor lies a complex philosophical discussion about the conflict between ideals and harsh reality, madness and wisdom. Don Quixote symbolizes nobility and unwavering idealism, while Sancho Panza represents common sense and pragmatism. With his innovative narrative techniques, layered characters, and humor, Cervantes founded modern prose and left an indelible mark on world culture.