Don Quijote de La Mancha / Parte 2 / Capítulo 31: Resumen

Welcome to the Duke's Castle

Sancho's Anticipation

• Sancho expresses his happiness about returning to a life of luxury at the Duke and Duchess's castle, reminiscent of his previous experiences with Don Diego de Miranda and Basilio.

Grand Reception for Don Quijote

• The Duke informs his servants to treat Don Quijote with utmost respect, leading to an extravagant welcome that makes Quijote feel like a true knight.

• The ceremonial treatment includes maidens sprinkling perfume and draping a fine scarlet cloak over Quijote, reinforcing his delusions of grandeur as he believes he is being honored like other knights from history.

Sancho's Concern for His Donkey

• Sancho feels guilty about leaving his donkey outside the castle and requests assistance from a servant to bring it inside, showcasing his loyalty despite the pomp surrounding them.

• A humorous exchange occurs when the servant refuses to help, leading to a comical argument between Sancho and another character regarding age and responsibilities.

Inside the Castle: A Knightly Experience

• Upon entering, Don Quijote is treated like royalty; he is disarmed by maidens in a lavishly decorated room while Sancho observes in disbelief at their noble treatment.

• Quijote confronts Sancho about his behavior upon entering the castle, emphasizing that they must maintain their dignity and not reveal their true identities through crassness.

Dining with Nobility

• Both characters are dressed well for dinner and are again treated like celebrities by numerous attendants. They are led into a dining room set for four guests.

• The Duke offers Don Quijote the head seat at the table; after initial reluctance, he accepts due to insistence. This moment highlights both honor and social hierarchy within noble settings.

Storytelling Moment

• During dinner, an ecclesiastic figure sits across from Don Quijote while they engage in conversation. Sancho prepares to share an anecdote related to seating arrangements but reassures everyone that he will behave appropriately.

The Story of the Rich Hidalgo and the Poor Laborer

Introduction to Characters and Setting

• A rich Hidalgo invites a poor but honorable laborer to his home, setting the stage for a tale of social dynamics.

• The narrator reflects on missing the funeral of the deceased Hidalgo, indicating a personal connection to the story.

Tension at the Dinner Table

• As they prepare to sit down for dinner, tension arises due to Don Quijote's anger and Sancho Panza's lengthy storytelling.

• The Hidalgo insists that the laborer take the head seat at the table, showcasing themes of humility and respect in their interaction.

Humility vs. Social Status

• Despite being urged by the Hidalgo, the humble laborer refuses to sit at the head of the table, emphasizing his modesty.

• The narrative highlights Don Quijote’s frustration as he overhears discussions about Dulcinea and giants, reflecting his delusions of grandeur.

Critique of Fantasies

• An ecclesiastic character criticizes Don Quijote’s tales about giants and malefactors, revealing societal views on fantasy literature.

• The ecclesiastic warns others about Don Quijote's dangerous fantasies, suggesting that such stories can lead individuals astray from reality.

Conclusion: Reflections on Reality vs. Fantasy