Don Quixote: Statue of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza
This statue shows the two main characters of the novel. The relationship between Don Quixote and Sancho Panza is very important in the novel. They are neighbors until Don Quixote hires/bribes Sancho Panza to be his squire. Don Quixote makes him many promises of land and power, which to someone who comes from poverty is a very good offer. He just does what Don Quixote wants in hopes of improving his social status. The contrast between Panza’s clear mind and Quixote’s is refreshing and offers a better understanding of the text. At first Sancho is reluctant and confused by Don Quixote’s actions. For instance, when they encounter the windmills and Don Quixote thinks they are giants, his squire is seriously puzzled as to how Quixote sees and wishes to battle windmills. Eventually Sancho Panza gives into Quixote’s madness/creative imagination. Throughout their adventures, the pair becomes very close without Sancho receiving anything in return. Many consider Don Quixote to be the first modern novel. Due to this, aspects of the relationship between the two main characters can be seen in modern hero/epic characters today.
The location on the map is Madrid and it is an important location because it is where the statues of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza are located and many people believe that Miguel de Cervantes and his wife are also buried there. There is also a stone sculpture of the author, Miguel de Cervantes located in this popular tourist destination. The presence of these statues demonstrate the lasting influence on Spanish society.
