Miguel de Cervantes

Lore & Background

His first significant novel, La Galatea, was published in 1585, but he continued working as a purchasing agent and later as a government tax collector. Part One of Don Quixote was published in 1605, and Part Two in 1615. Other works include the 12 Novelas ejemplares, the long poem Viaje del Parnaso, and Ocho comedias y ocho entremeses. The novel Los trabajos de Persiles y Sigismunda was published posthumously in 1617. Many details of his life remain uncertain, including his name, background, and physical appearance; he signed his name as 'Cerbantes,' and later used 'Saavedra.' There is disputed evidence regarding his ethnic background, with some suggesting converso origins, though this is based on what some scholars call 'very flimsy evidence.'

Reader's Guide

Miguel de Cervantes's significance rests primarily on his novel Don Quixote, which is widely considered the first modern novel and has been called the 'best book of all time' and the 'best and most central work in world literature' by many well-known authors. His influence is such that Spanish is often referred to as 'the language of Cervantes.' Despite his literary renown, much of his life was spent in relative poverty and obscurity, and many of his early works were lost. His legacy includes a body of work that spans novels, novellas, poetry, and plays, though his reputation is overwhelmingly defined by Don Quixote. The uncertainties surrounding his biography—including his name, background, and the extent of his disability from the Battle of Lepanto—have not diminished his standing as a pre-eminent figure in world literature.

Did You Know?

• Cervantes lost the use of his left arm and hand at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, earning him the nickname 'El manco de Lepanto.'
• He was held captive by Barbary pirates in Algiers for five years after being captured in 1575.
• His first significant novel, La Galatea, was published in 1585, but he continued working as a purchasing agent and tax collector.
• Spanish is often referred to as 'the language of Cervantes' due to his literary influence.

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"Original Spanish text: Free eBook of Don Quijote at Project Gutenberg (es:Don Quijote de la Mancha imcomplete transcription)." — Miguel de Cervantes "English translation Don Quixote at Wikisource." — Miguel de Cervantes "This famous work has been translated into English by many authors, and an attempt will be made to source the translations which are used here." — Miguel de Cervantes "...estás en tu casa, donde eres señor della, como el rey de sus alcabalas." — Miguel de Cervantes