Miguel de Cervantes and the Satirical War in 'Don Quixote'

Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's Don Quixote is a masterpiece of literature, a satirical novel that transcends the boundaries of genres. In this work, Cervantes brilliantly portrays the absurdity and the harsh realities of chivalric romance, a genre that romanticized war and knighthood in the 16th and 17th centuries. It is particularly relevant when juxtaposed with the experiences of modern veterans and war veterans of the 20th century, such as those who fought in World War I.

The Romanticization of War in Chivalric Romance

Chivalric romance, an incredibly popular literary genre during the late medieval and early modern periods, often portrayed war as an epic and romantic endeavor. Characters like Don Quixote were ideologically driven by a sense of justice and chivalry, engaging in epic quests that seemed more like a heroic fantasy than a brutal reality. Cervantes, a former soldier himself who had experienced the harsh realities of war firsthand, knew that these romanticized depictions were a far cry from the bloody and devastating truth.

Don Quixote and the Critique of Chivalry

Don Quixote serves as a critique of chivalric romance through its protagonist, Don Quixote. While Don Quixote is a deluded knight who believes in the outdated ideals of chivalry, his sidekick, Sancho Panza, represents the more grounded and practical outlook. This dual nature of the characters reflects Cervantes' own complex feelings about the war he experienced before and upon returning home. Don Quixote likened to the idealistic na?veté of war, and Sancho Panza to the realistic, pragmatic understanding of life post-war.

Comparisons to Soldiers of the 20th Century

Just as Don Quixote romanticized war, many soldiers who fought in World War I and Vietnam might have similarly idealized their experiences initially. However, as reality set in, these idealized views often gave way to a disillusioned perspective akin to Sancho Panza’s. Cervantes, in his satirical narrative, highlights the gap between the romanticized and the real withering of hope and idealism in war.

Implications for Modern American Politics

While one might attempt to find political meaning in Don Quixote, efforts to do so are futile. The novel was not written with modern American politics in mind. Cervantes, however, did have a clear understanding of the existence and impact of war. His work resonates more with themes of disillusionment, realism, and the contrast between idealism and reality, which are universal concepts.

Conclusion

Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes is a timeless masterpiece that remains relevant long after its time of creation. It offers a mirror to the human condition, reflecting the disillusionment and pragmatism that accompanies the aftermath of war. The contrast between Don Quixote’s idealism and Sancho Panza’s realism provides a poignant commentary on the realities of war and soldiering. Understanding these themes not only enhances our appreciation of Cervantes' work but also offers valuable insights into human nature and the enduring impact of conflict.