Don Quixote | Miguel De Cervantes Saavedra

Don Quixote: Penguin Clothbound Classics

Extended Synopsis

Considered by many literary critics and historians to be the first modern novel, Don Quixote remains a cornerstone of the Western literary canon. Entranced by endless tales of chivalry and romance, the idealistic Don Quixote resolves to become a knight errant, taking up his lance and sword to defend the helpless and destroy the wicked. Accompanied by his pragmatic, earthbound squire, Sancho Panza, the aging nobleman sets out into the Spanish countryside, leading to exploits that blossom in wonderful and often disastrous ways.

While Quixote's boundless imagination leads him astray—most famously causing him to tilt at windmills he perceives to be towering giants—the narrative explores profound themes of reality, illusion, and human nature. As they roam the world together, the duo perfectly embodies the dualities of the sane madman and the wise fool. This exquisite Penguin Clothbound Classics edition features Coralie Bickford-Smith's renowned cover design and John Rutherford's masterly translation, which expertly captures the dynamic energy, experimental form, and sharp wit of Cervantes's original prose.

Intended Audience

This beautiful edition is intended for collectors of fine books, students of world literature, and any reader eager to experience one of the most significant, influential, and humorous works in literary history in a highly acclaimed, readable translation.

Author Biography

Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra (1547–1616) is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the Spanish language and one of the world's preeminent novelists. A poet, playwright, and soldier who survived captivity in Algiers, his rich life experiences informed the complex humanity and enduring satire found in his magnum opus, cementing his legacy as a titan of world literature.

Accolades & Recognition

• Universally recognized as a foundational masterpiece of Western literature and the first modern novel.
• Features an award-winning, masterly translation by John Rutherford that captures the nuance and humor of the original text.
• Presented in a stunning, highly collectible hardcover format designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith for the Penguin Clothbound Classics series.

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