Don Quixote

Proclaimed as the very first novel, The Ingenious Don Quixote de la Mancha has been translated and interpreted so many time that Don Quixote himself cuts a confused figure in the public consciousness. John Rutherford’s translation, then, is a wonderfully accurate, ingenious and original work that perfectly captures the comic force and wit of this novel, redrawing a well-known character with verve.

Addled by too many chivalric romances, the ageing Don Quixote resolves to become a knight errant. Setting out on his trusty steed, he employs Sancho Panza as his squire and determines to rescue damsels in distress, slay mighty giants, and win the lovely Dulcinea’s heart. Unfortunately, he spends most of his time fighting windmills, falling off his horse and making a general fool of himself.  As the novel progresses the laugh-out-loud comedy becomes tinged with tragedy, whilst the relationship between Don Quixote and Sancho Panza becomes ever more complex and touching.