Ilan Stavans
If you love Cervantes’ Don Quixote, you will enjoy Quixote: The Novel and the World by Ilan Stavans as a delightful companion to Cervantes’ masterpiece. Stavans divides his exploration into two parts: Section 1 focuses on the novel; Section 2 focuses on its reception, contribution, adaptation, and influence on Western literature.
Stavans explores Don Quixote from all angles. He includes biographical information on Cervantes and the publishing history of the novel. He engages in literary criticism, character analysis, and compares translations. He discusses the many literary and artistic expressions it has influenced. He cites prominent writers and artists throughout the centuries who engaged with the novel, many of whom gushed in their praise of it. There is analysis, facts, and opinions. Stavans also delves into the fundamentals by exploring the various spellings of “Quixote” and their significance. The novel’s impact on the Spanish language and culture are also explored as are the various adaptations in visual arts, musicals, operas, ballets, and movies.
The thread running throughout is Stavans unabashed passion for the masterpiece. His gushing enthusiasm is reflected in his willingness to go wherever the novel or its offshoots take him. The organization of his book is somewhat haphazard as Stavans jumps around and changes direction at a breathless pace. But throughout this very personal exploration, Stavans is informative, entertaining, and serves a veritable feast for lovers of Cervantes’ Don Quixote.
Recommended.