Don Quijote de La Mancha / Parte 2 / Capítulo 32: Resumen

Don Quijote's Response to the Ecclesiastic

The Just Anger of Don Quijote

• Don Quijote expresses his anger towards the ecclesiastic, emphasizing that respect for the institution and those present limits his ability to respond more forcefully.

• He criticizes the harsh reprimand he received in public, questioning why he is being told to return home without knowing his personal circumstances.

Reflections on Chivalry

• Don Quijote reflects on how time spent traveling should not be seen as wasted; instead, it is a pursuit of noble ideals rather than material gifts.

• He contrasts different paths people take—ambition, servile flattery, and deceit—asserting that he follows the narrow path of chivalry.

Defense of His Character

• Identifying himself as a Platonic lover, Don Quijote claims his intentions are purely benevolent and questions if being called foolish for this is justified.

• He humorously suggests that Sancho Panza deserves governance over an island due to their adventures together.

The Duke's Reaction and Social Commentary

The Nature of Insults

• The duke finds amusement in Don Quijote’s response but notes that ecclesiastics and women cannot truly insult those who cannot be offended.

• This leads to a discussion about social hierarchies where children, women, and clergy lack offensive capabilities despite being able to suffer insults.

Misunderstandings About Chivalry

• Don Quijote insists he has not been wronged and wishes to clarify misconceptions about knights errant in society.

• The duke’s wife enjoys Sancho’s humorous remarks about their situation with Don Quijote.

A Comedic Turn: The Washing Incident

A Practical Joke

• After dinner, servants begin washing Don Quijote's beard as part of a prank unbeknownst to him or the duke and duchess.

• As one maid pretends to run out of water during the wash, they leave him soapy while everyone else laughs at the situation.

Shared Experiences Among Nobility

• In a lighter moment post-prank, the duke asks Don Quijote about Dulcinea del Toboso.

• Despite describing her transformation from beauty to an unattractive peasant due to enchantment, he laments losing her as an essential part of his knightly identity.

The Illusion of Dulcinea

Questioning Reality vs. Imagination

• Acknowledging Dulcinea may be imaginary raises questions about love and chivalric ideals; she symbolizes what drives him as a knight errant.

The Illusion of Dulcinea

The Existence of Dulcinea

• Don Quijote expresses his intention to make people believe in the existence of Dulcinea, portraying her as a beautiful woman.

• He explains that enchantments are at play, causing harm to Dulcinea as a means to torment him, indicating a deep connection between his perception and her reality.

Transformation and Reality

• Don Quijote recounts how he witnessed Dulcinea transformed into a peasant woman while working in the fields, emphasizing the cruel nature of the enchantment.

• He compares Dulcinea's noble status to that of Helen of Troy, asserting that she will bring fame to El Toboso just as Helen did for Troy.

Sancho Panza's Character

• Sancho Panza is described as a loyal squire with both humorous and intelligent traits despite appearing simple-minded; Don Quijote sees potential in him for governance.

Comedic Interlude: The Barbershop Incident

• A chaotic scene unfolds when Sancho is pursued by servants wanting to wash his beard, highlighting comedic elements within their adventures.

• Sancho protests against the dirty towel and insists on maintaining his cleanliness, showcasing his pride and humor amidst absurdity.

Interaction with the Duchess

• The Duchess intervenes on behalf of Sancho, recognizing his worthiness as an squire. She promises to ensure that he receives what was promised regarding governance.

• Despite being tired from summer heat, Sancho agrees to spend time with the Duchess and her maidens out of respect for her kindness.