Beyond the adventures of the knight errant, the work of Miguel de Cervantes offers sharp points of view on issues that continue to affect us today.
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Few works have left such a deep mark on universal literature as Don Quijote de la ManchaPublished in 1605, the novel Miguel de Cervantes not only gave life to one of the most iconic characters in history, but also became a mirror of the human condition. Between ravings and lucidities, the nobleman from La Mancha and his faithful squire, Sancho Panza, travel along paths where reality and fantasy intertwine, leaving behind reflections on love, justice and power.
Beyond its plot, Don Quixote offers timeless thoughts that invite reflection. From the knight's firmness in his ideals to Sancho's pragmatism in his short-lived government, Cervantes' work continues to resonate strongly in today's world.
Sancho Panza rules the Barataria Island, a fictitious territory that the dukes, as part of a mockery, grant him to test his ability as governor. During his brief mandate, Sancho demonstrates a surprising common sense and justice in his decisions, although he finally resigns from office when he realizes the difficulties of the government and is the victim of a final prank that leaves him battered and disillusioned.
In these ten phrases, we capture the essence of his teaching on the great themes of life.
Freedom
Freedom, Sancho, is one of the most precious gifts that heaven has given to men; no treasures that the earth holds or the sea conceals can equal it; for freedom, as much as for honor, one can and should risk one's life, and, on the contrary, captivity is the greatest evil that can befall men (Don Quixote)
Be more
You must know, Sancho, that one man is not more than another if he does not do more than another (Don Quixote)
Justice
When equity can and should take place, do not burden the criminal with all the rigor of the law, for the reputation of a rigorous judge is no better than that of a compassionate one. (Don Quixote)
Freedom, Sancho, is one of the most precious gifts that heaven has given to men; no treasures that the earth holds or the sea conceals can equal it; for freedom, as much as for honor, one can and should risk one's life, and, on the contrary, captivity is the greatest evil that can befall men (Don Quixote)
Love
Love, as I have heard, looks through glasses that make copper look like gold, poverty like wealth, and eye boogers like pearls. (Sancho Panza)
The forces of love often drive souls mad, using careless idleness as their instrument. Sewing and embroidery, and being always busy, are often the antidote to the poison of amorous desires. (Don Quixote)
Love and war are one and the same thing, and just as in war it is lawful and customary to use tricks and stratagems to defeat the enemy, so in love disputes and battles the lies and schemes that are made to achieve the desired end are considered valid. (Don Quixote)
Fools
The fool knows nothing at home or in another's house, because no great building is built on the foundation of foolishness.
Corporate
Here is your governor Sancho Panza, who in the ten days he has had the government has been able to understand that it will not matter at all to him not to be governor, not only of an island, but of the whole world. (Sancho Panza)
If you govern badly, the fault will be yours, and the shame mine. (Don Quixote)