1. In what ways does the character or personality of Sancho Panza contrast with that of Don Quixote? Why has Cervantes set up this contrast?
2. Speculate on why Don Quixote might have been susceptible to the influences of his reading.
Why does he prefer the world of his books to the world as perceived by others in his society?
3. Don Quixote uses force to serve his sense of justice. The legitimate authorities of the day
likewise resort to force. What might Cervantes be telling us about the relationship of force (or
violence) to justice? Look especially at Chapters 4 and 22. Can justice truly be done by an
individual in service to a higher valueabove laws and customs? What does Cervantes seem to
think of this idea? What seems to be the author’s attitude towards authority?
4. Examine graphic works or other works of art that portray scenes from Don Quixote. How has
the artist used the text and made choices?
5. Storytelling is a theme throughout Don Quixote. Why has Cervantes made so many of the
characters storytellers?
6. The characters in the novel respond differently to the protagonist’s madness. Some are
entertained, some are amazed or intimidated, while others want to help, and end up joining in his
fantasies to some extent. Discuss one or more of these styles of response. What is Cervantes
saying about the world at large?
7. What are Don Quixotes and Sanchos views of what is sane?
8. Discuss the theme of descent or breeding in contrast to merit. How are these shaping forces
discussed by Don Quixote, Sancho, the narrator, and other characters?
9. In what ways does the behavior of the shepherds on pp. 1710 1732 resemble that of Don
Quixote?
10. Does Don Quixote truly believe Dulcinea exists? Much of Don Quixotes behavior and
words suggest that he believes Dulcinea exists and that she will respond in ways dictated by the
books of chivalry. Discuss how he modifies his views of her story and background in light of
evidence and discussions that arise in the narrative.
11. In what ways do the women in the novel (real, imagined, or partly imagined) confront the
ideals expected of them by Don Quixote or by others?
12. Speculate on Don Quixote / Sr. Quejanas earlier life. What might have led him to lose
himself so completely in the world of books?
13. To what extent are we expected to think of Don Quixote as the true identity of the
protagonist? 21. Discuss Cervantes views of a type of authority or authorities (judges, priests,
peace officers, barbers, students, lawyers).
14. Discuss Don Quixotes views on what makes one noble or worthy of nobility. Consider his
ideas on the influence of descent and merit.
15. Cervantes (or the narrator) claims a number of different origins for this story. Why does he
do this?
16. Is Don Quixote purely a subject of jokes or does Cervantes have a serious purpose?
17. How aware is Don Quixote of his mental condition? To what extent does he have control
over his madness, if at all?
18. If Don Quixote does have some measure of control over his madness, why has he chosen to
live the world of the medieval romances (books of chivalry)?
19. How does Sancho internalize and modify Don Quixote’s teachings? What might this say
about the authors view of the value of what he is learning?
