Don Quijote de La Mancha / Parte 2 / Capítulo 17: Resumen
Chapter 17: A New Adventure Begins
The Call to Action
- Don Quijote calls Sancho Panza to bring him his helmet while Sancho is busy buying cheese. To avoid wasting the cheese, he hides it in Don Quijote's helmet.
- Upon seeing a cart with three flags, Don Quijote perceives it as an opportunity for a new adventure. He eagerly puts on the helmet, only to end up covered in cheese.
Confrontation with the Lion Tamer
- In frustration, Don Quijote accuses Sancho of betrayal due to the cheese incident. Sancho defends himself by suggesting that enchantments are at play.
- The scene attracts attention from Don Diego de Miranda, who observes the unfolding chaos and expresses disbelief at Don Quijote's antics.
The Challenge of the Lions
- When confronted by a lion tamer claiming to transport hungry lions, Don Quijote insists on facing them despite warnings from both Sancho and Diego.
- Diego attempts to dissuade Don Quijote from confronting the lions but is met with rejection; Sancho compares this situation unfavorably to their previous encounter with windmills.
Facing Danger Head-On
- Ignoring all advice, Don Quijote prepares for battle against the lions. He decides to confront them on foot rather than from horseback.
- As he stands before the lion's cage, he prays for courage and readiness while contemplating how best to face the beast.
The Outcome of Bravery
- When the lion is released, it merely stretches and returns to sleep instead of attacking. This leads to an unexpected victory for Don Quijote without any actual confrontation.
- Afterward, he claims glory over his non-fight with the lion and instructs Diego de Miranda on how history should remember him as "the knight of lions."
Reflections on Chivalry
- As they continue their journey, Diego reflects on how eloquent yet reckless Don Quijote is when speaking versus acting.
- He argues that true knights must engage in dangerous adventures for fame and glory while balancing bravery against foolishness.