Cervantes' Don Quixote: A Reference Guide (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780313333477)

Recently voted the best literary work of all time, Cervantes' Don Quixote is widely read by students and has had enormous influence on popular culture. Written by a leading Cervantes scholar yet accessible to students and general readers, this book conveniently introduces Cervantes' masterpiece. Included along with a detailed plot summary are chapters on the novel's background, themes, style, and reception. The volume closes with an extensive bibliographical essay and a selected, general bibliography.

In 2002, the Norwegian Book Club, affiliated with the Nobel Prize organization, polled 100 writers from around the world, asking each to name the 10 best works of imaginative literature of all time. Cervantes' Don Quixote, though first published in 1605, was the overwhelming winner. Don Quixote is a favorite among students and general readers alike. It has been translated into more languages than any book other than the bible; adapted to the stage more than any other non-dramatic text; illustrated more than any other novel; and inspired more films than any other literary work. Written by a leading scholar yet accessible to high school students, this guide is an indispensable introduction to the world's most important novel.

An introductory chapter overviews Cervantes' life and career and discusses the background of his novel. The book then provides a detailed plot summary of Don Quixote and considers the merits of different editions. It then looks at the cultural and historical contexts surrounding the novel and gives extensive attention to the work's themes, style, and reception. A bibliographical essay and selected, general bibliography of major studies conclude the volume.

Author: Howard Mancing
ISBN-10: 0313333475
ISBN-13: 9780313333477
Publisher: Greenwood
Language: English
Published: 06/01/2006
Pages: 248
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.15lbs
Size: 9.32h x 6.38w x 0.97d

Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 08/15/2006 pg. 120
Library Journal 08/01/2006 pg. 120
Reference and Research Bk News 08/01/2006 pg. 301