Student Scholarship

Document Type

Capstone Paper

Abstract

The paper Exploring Don Quixote's Madness by W.A. Reeves delves into the psychological and philosophical dimensions of Miguel de Cervantes’ iconic character, Don Quixote. The study examines Don Quixote’s transition from a mundane existence as Alonso Quijano into the idealistic yet delusional knight-errant. Reeves contextualizes this transformation within the psychological dynamics of will, judgment, and imagination, suggesting that Don Quixote’s madness stems from the repression of these inner forces in his earlier, unfulfilled life.

Through a detailed analysis, the paper highlights how Don Quixote’s escapades embody both the noble pursuit of idealism and the pitfalls of losing touch with reality. Reeves draws from critical stances and literary interpretations, contrasting the growth of Quixote’s character with his eventual tragic decline. This exploration dismisses traditional moralistic readings of the novel, arguing that Cervantes’ work transcends such judgments, presenting life as an evolving interplay of forces rather than a didactic narrative.

Ultimately, the paper positions Don Quixote as both a cautionary figure and a symbol of human resilience, illustrating how his imaginative zeal transforms his world, albeit at great personal cost. Reeves’ psychological lens provides a unique framework to understand Cervantes’ enduring masterpiece, bridging its literary and philosophical complexities.

Publication Date

Winter 1977

Faculty Sponsor

Denis Cowan

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