Don Quixote

Nyasia Baker

Dr. Akassi

Hum 225

                        Don Quixote

Don Quixote is a man who is dissatisfied with his boring lifestyle. He acts out his imaginations from books he read about chivalrous knights, and bloody battles. It is clear that Don Quixote suffers some mental health issues because he finds it hard to distinguish his imaginations from reality. Don Quixote can also be viewed as dangerous and a threat to his community for many of reasons. Denouncing his own delusions near his death does not justify his actions and behavior, so it is not a good thing. First, it has been established that Don Quixote suffers from serious mental issues due to him acting out his imaginations on books about chivalrous knights. During Quixote’s time period, knights did not exist and therefore did not have a place into society. Don embarks on a journey that only he can see. Don Quixote’s armor was old metal that was moldering. His helmet was made out of cardboard, and his horse was in very poor condition. In Don’s mind, everything he had was in the best condition possible as he even made up great names for himself and his horse. This is enough evidence to show that Quixote is not in his right state of mind. At an inn, in which he considers to be a castle, he thinks of the prostitutes as beautiful damsels and a peasant woman as a noble lady, whom he gives the name “Dulcinea Del Toboso”. Those around him play along to his foolish game as well, which leads me to think that he’s not as crazy but to a certain extent. Instead of providing him with the help he really needs, others in the community chose to add onto the story making him even crazier than before.

                        Personal Response

In my opinion, his actions were not justifiable other than him being a madman, it’s great that he’s being more honest and open with himself before his passing.
 We can therefore say that the books about chivalry drove Don Quixote to his madness, along with the people in his community. If they were a little more honest with him, and gave him the proper treatment that he needs then a few of Don’s altercations could have been avoided. We can also conclude that Don Quixote is crazy only to a certain extent. He’s able to associate himself back to reality once again and admit what the books of chivalry drove him to do. Although he may not be considered as a brave figure, he made his life more interesting than those around him, who was simply entertained by his actions as well as they played along with him.  The story was easy to visualize, as I could just picture Don Quixote on Rocinante and Sancho following close behind on his mule. It makes me wonder how Don Quixote lost his mind and decided to become a knight. Up until that point he seemed to lead a normal life of existence, with no signs of craziness. I couldn't help but feel sorry for Quixote. Throughout the story I was hoping he would accomplish his dreams of a chivalric lifestyle.