Having gone through Miguel de Cervantes` elaborations, it is apparent that we are meant to see Don Quixote as a satire of medieval literature. The work is filled with satirical commentary pertaining to overly-embellished medieval legends. This can clearly be observed especially in part II where an additional preface attempts to offer the reader a clear glimpse of the book as a satire of chivalry. Moreover, there are constant attempts to establish a nostalgia pertaining to a chivalric past. Don Quixote is a piece of literature which focuses on the satire of medieval literature.
Satirical inquest of this work is undeniable. For example, Cervantes acknowledges that the absurdities which lie in reading the text are based on the precept that reading them is bound to make the reader go mad (De Cervantes, 2014). There are constant attempts to portray the writings of Cervantes as works that advance agendas pertaining to morality and Christianity. The “dulce y sabroso” satire has been commended as an attempt to correct the vices clearly visible in the society (De Cervantes, 2014). Moreover, Don Quixote is viewed as a character who attempts to validate the Chivalric medieval culture where individuals ended up upholding hedonistic vanity and also romance at the expense of virtues that are greatly upheld in Christianity. Also, the note of approbation is a clear indication of Cervantes` attempt to acknowledge the work as a form of Christian-centered satire.
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Further instances of medieval literature satire lies in the character of Don Quixote. This is a fictional character who thrives in a fictional world. His idea of recreating himself into a king errant and boarding adventures is satirical in the sense that it is something unimaginable within the contemporary world. It is even further humorous to see that the idea of him not being a king errant in real sense does not deter him from doing things such as hiring a squire and even dedicating himself to love someone.
Moreover, the encounter between Don Quixote and the damsel in Chapter XXIX is another example of medieval satire. He woos her by telling her through his help and that of God she is bound to find new life and strength out of all the distresses she is facing (De Cervantes, 2014). Finally, it is evident that modern satire often exhibits similar instances by allowing the occurrence of fantasy games like the ones established by Don Quixote, however, it is highly unlikely for the reader to lose their grip on realism. One can, therefore, not deny that Don Quixote is a satire of medieval literature.
Reference
De Cervantes, M. (2014). Don Quixote . eBooks@Adelaide .
