Don Quixote

5RR, Miguel de Cervantes, London 1755. In two volumes.

Notes

Don Quixote, written by Miguel de Cervantes, is one of the most important works of literature ever written and is often considered the first modern novel. Published in two parts (1605 and 1615), the story follows an aging nobleman, Alonso Quixano, who becomes so enamored with chivalric tales that he adopts the persona of "Don Quixote" and sets off on a series of misguided adventures. Accompanied by his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, Don Quixote embarks on quests to revive chivalry, protect the helpless, and fight injustice. However, his perception of reality is distorted, and he often mistakes ordinary people and situations for grand, heroic tasks, most famously attacking windmills which he believes to be giants.

The novel explores themes of idealism versus reality, the power of imagination, and the human condition. Through Don Quixote’s misguided yet noble actions and Sancho Panza's pragmatic worldview, Cervantes critiques both the outdated notions of chivalric romance and the complexities of human nature. The character of Don Quixote has since become a symbol of idealistic pursuits, often in contrast to a more cynical or disillusioned reality, making the book a timeless exploration of the tension between fantasy and the real world. Cervantes’ masterpiece is a foundational work in world literature and continues to influence writers, philosophers, and artists around the globe.

Description

Original leather boards with Rebacked spine with six raised bands. Gilt elements and red leather label with gilt lettering in the second compartment and a black leather label with gilt lettering in the fifth compartment. Marbled endpapers. 28 copper plate illustrations throughout. Minimal scuffing to the boards and bumping to the corners. Fine condition overall.