Don Quixote S Impossible Quest For The Absolute In Literature

This book offers a reading particularly of Part II of Don Quixote, a reading that is embedded in a philosophical reflection on the revelation of religious truth in and through literature. Part II of Don Quixote is the far richer part for its meta-literary reflection on the novel itself as a genre and on life as such seen through the lens of self-reflection. The author has treated the phenomenon of modern self-reflexivity as originally theological in nature in previous publications (notably Dante’s Paradiso and the Theological Origins of Modern Thought: Toward a Speculative Philosophy of Self-Reflection, Routledge, 2021). The present endeavor expands this overall intellectual project, extending it into detailed consideration of what is recognizably another nodal great work inaugurating unprecedented forms of self-reflection in the early modern period. Reading the founding texts of literary and cultural tradition in this negative-theological key proves crucial to allowing them to release the full force of their religious vision in the present age, despite its sometimes obstinate secularity. This reading absorbs and reconciles the religious and secular readings of Miguel de Unamuno and José Ortega y Gasset, two of Spain’s outstanding philosophical luminaries. Both thinkers based their entire philosophies and their analyses of the Spanish national character and destiny on their interpretations of the Quixote. Negative theology deploys critical reason that critiques the limits of reason itself and opens toward an unfathomable (un)ground of All. Such speculative interpretation performs a synthesis of the secularizing and sacralizing tendencies that are both sublimely operative in the text of the Quixote. It thereby enables the work to emerge in the fully parodic and paradoxical vitality that other interpretations, governed by one paradigm or the other, access only partially. Rather than falling into one camp or the other, the proposed approach combines and resources both heritages, sacred and secular, in their deepest synergisms. Spanish baroque mysticism and contemporary post-secular thought are made to converge in highlighting the blessed, even sacred, donation that literature like Don Quixote preserves and transmits as our most precious and saving cultural heritage.

"This book offers a reading particularly of Part II of Don Quixote embedded in a philosophical reflection on the revelation of religious truth in and through literature. It absorbs and reconciles the religious reading of Miguel de Unamuno and the secular reading of José Ortega y Gasset, Spain's two outstanding philosophical luminaries. Both thinkers based their entire philosophies and their analyses of the Spanish national character and destiny on their interpretations of the Quixote. Negative theology deploys critical reason that is critical of reason itself and opens toward an unfathomable (un)ground of All. It performs a synthesis of the secularizing and sacralizing tendencies that are both sublimely operative in the text of the Quixote. It enables the Quixote to emerge in its fully parodic and paradoxical vitality, which other interpretations governed by one paradigm or the other can access only partially. Spanish baroque mysticism and contemporary post-secular thought are made to converge in highlighting the blessed, even sacred, donation that literature like Don Quixote preserves and transmits as our most precious and saving cultural heritage"--

The adventures of Don Quixote, the famous knight errant, and his lady-love, Dulcinea del Toboso that Miguel de Cervantes portrays in his epic novel, The Ingenious Hidalgo Don Quixote of La Mancha; and made more famous by countless adaptations featured in movies and theatrical musical productions of that singular masterpiece reflective of the human condition has captured the imagination of generations throughout the world. Don Quixotes Impossible Dream: To Everyman His Dulcinea, by David P. Grzan, has elevated the notion of chivalric love, in the fairest terms, which Don Quixote advanced to the honor and esteem of Dulcinea, his true love, the quest of his impossible dream. Love, the most powerful force in the universe, has been the primary inspiration that has propelled all the Don Quixotes, known and unknown that have ever lived, in their attempt to accomplish great deeds in the name of their particular Dulcinea. This epic poem immortalizes the triumphs, tragedies, obstacles, struggles and courage that can accompany and at other times can thwart the greatest of all prizes, love, in the context of the infinite profoundness and complexity of the human dynamic, which is sublimely represented and exemplified by the relationship between Don Quixote and Dulcinea.

Embark on an Epic Adventure with 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra Prepare to be transported to the enchanting world of knights, chivalry, and whimsical quests with Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's timeless classic, 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1.' In this epic tale of adventure and imagination, readers are invited to follow the exploits of the noble yet delusional Don Quixote as he embarks on a quest to revive the age of chivalry. Experience the Quixotic Adventures of Don Quixote In 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1,' Cervantes introduces readers to the iconic figure of Don Quixote, a retired gentleman who becomes convinced that he is a valiant knight-errant. Accompanied by his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, Don Quixote sets out on a series of misadventures that blur the line between reality and fantasy. Cervantes's masterful storytelling and keen wit bring the character of Don Quixote to life in vivid detail, immersing readers in a world of windmills, giants, and damsels in distress. From the plains of La Mancha to the bustling streets of medieval Spain, every page of 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' is filled with humor, heart, and timeless wisdom. Discover the Timeless Themes of Idealism and Reality 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' is more than just a rollicking adventure; it is a profound exploration of the human condition and the power of imagination. As Don Quixote tilts at windmills and battles imaginary foes, readers are invited to ponder the nature of reality, the pursuit of dreams, and the meaning of true heroism. With its richly drawn characters, sweeping narrative, and universal themes, 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' has captivated readers for centuries. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or simply love a good story, Cervantes's masterpiece is sure to leave a lasting impression. Why 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' Is a Must-Read for Literature Enthusiasts: Epic Adventure: Join Don Quixote on a quest for honor, glory, and impossible dreams as he embarks on a series of quixotic adventures that defy logic and reason. Timeless Wisdom: Explore the timeless themes of idealism, reality, and the human spirit that resonate throughout Cervantes's masterpiece and speak to the universal truths of the human experience. Unforgettable Characters: Fall in love with the unforgettable characters of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, whose unlikely friendship and comedic exploits have endeared them to readers for generations. Perfect Gift: Share the magic and wonder of 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' with friends and family by gifting them a copy of the novel. It's the perfect choice for anyone who dreams of embarking on a grand adventure of their own.Don't miss your chance to journey to the enchanting world of Don Quixote and experience the timeless adventures of Spain's most famous knight-errant. Grab your copy of 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 1' today and prepare to be swept away on a journey of laughter, love, and impossible dreams.

Continue the Epic Journey with 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra Prepare to be enthralled once again by the adventures of the legendary knight-errant and his faithful squire in Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's unforgettable sequel, 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2.' In this continuation of the timeless tale, readers are invited to join Don Quixote and Sancho Panza as they embark on a new series of misadventures and encounters. Experience the Continuing Saga of Don Quixote In 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2,' Cervantes picks up where he left off in the first volume, continuing the adventures of his iconic characters with wit, humor, and boundless imagination. As Don Quixote and Sancho Panza journey through the Spanish countryside, they encounter a host of colorful characters, engage in daring exploits, and grapple with the complexities of the human condition. Cervantes's masterful storytelling and keen insight into human nature shine through on every page, drawing readers deeper into the world of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza with each new chapter. From their encounters with bandits and knights-errant to their interactions with shepherds and scholars, the characters of 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' leap off the page with vivid clarity and charm. Discover the Timeless Themes of Honor, Friendship, and Imagination 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' is more than just a continuation of the first volume; it is a profound exploration of the human spirit and the power of imagination. As Don Quixote continues his quest for chivalric glory and Sancho Panza wrestles with the practicalities of everyday life, readers are invited to ponder timeless themes of honor, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams. With its richly drawn characters, engaging plot, and universal themes, 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' is a testament to Cervantes's enduring literary genius. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or simply love a good story, this sequel is sure to captivate and entertain. Why 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' Is a Must-Read for Literature Enthusiasts: Continuing Adventure: Rejoin Don Quixote and Sancho Panza on a new series of adventures and encounters that will delight and entertain readers of all ages. Timeless Themes: Explore the timeless themes of honor, friendship, and the power of imagination that resonate throughout Cervantes's masterpiece and speak to the universal truths of the human experience. Captivating Characters: Fall in love all over again with the iconic characters of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, whose unlikely friendship and comedic exploits have endeared them to readers for centuries. Perfect Gift: Share the magic and wonder of 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' with friends and family by gifting them a copy of the novel. It's the perfect choice for anyone who dreams of embarking on a grand adventure of their own.Don't miss your chance to continue the epic journey with Don Quixote and Sancho Panza in 'The History of Don Quixote, Volume 2' by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. Grab your copy today and prepare to be swept away on a whirlwind adventure of laughter, love, and impossible dreams.

Since its publication in the early seventeenth century, Don Quixote has become a classic of world literature, and its hero a symbol of romantic aspiration and absurdity. Even today, Cervantess mad knight continues to reach out and hook readers psyches. Don Quixote is the story of a verisimilar literary character, whose rich and conflicted inner life and encounters with the world around him became the prototype for the modern novel from Tom Jones to Lolita. Johnson situates the Quixote within its relevant historical and cultural context, including the uniquely Spanish form of the general European dialectic of Old versus New. The mad heros encounters with the world expose the shaky foundations of that conflictive society. Don Quixote was a revolutionary ideological statement in its own time, and has proved to be a revolutionary literary statement for all time. Johnson shows how Cervantes challenges the official poetics of the late sixteenth century, and simultaneously anticipates virtually every aspect of the trendiest theorizing of the late twentieth century.

Our ceaseless human quest for something larger than ourselves has never been represented with more insight and love than in this story of Don Quixote–pursuing his vision of glory in a mercantile age–and his shrewd, skeptical manservant, Sancho Panza. As they set out to right the world’s wrongs in knightly combat, the narrative moves from philosophical speculation to broad comedy, taking in pastoral, farce, and fantasy on the way. The first and still the greatest of all European novels, Don Quixote has been as important for the modern world as the poems of Homer were for the ancients. Translated by P. A. Motteux

Published in two volumes, but complete here, a decade apart, Don Quixote is considered the most influential work of literature from the Spanish Golden Age and the entire Spanish literary canon. As a founding work of modern Western literature, and one of the earliest canonical novels, it regularly appears high on lists of the greatest works of fiction ever published. In one such list, Don Quixote was cited as the "best literary work ever written."