Subject
Cervantes Saavedra, Miguel de, 1547-1616 Books
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Albert Frederick Calvert
The Life of Cervantes
"The Life of Cervantes" by Albert Frederick Calvert is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life and legacy of Miguel de Cervantes, the famed author of "Don Quixote," providing insights into his personal struggles and achievements. The text delves into Cervantes' dual identity as both a soldier and a writer, illustrating how his tumultuous life experiences shaped his literary genius. At the start of the book, the author presents an overview of the historical context of Cervantes' life, detailing his noble but impoverished family background, early education, and eventual enlistment in the military. The narrative highlights key events such as the Battle of Lepanto, where Cervantes was wounded, and his subsequent capture by pirates, which led to years of enslavement in Algiers. Throughout this opening section, Calvert emphasizes Cervantes' resilience and dedication to his craft, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his works and the impact he has had on literature and Spanish culture.
Gregorio Mayans y Siscar
Vida de Cervantes
"Vida de Cervantes" by Gregorio Mayans y Siscar is a biographical account written in the 18th century. This work provides an in-depth look at the life and legacy of the renowned Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, best known for his masterpiece "Don Quijote de la Mancha." The text aims to shed light on Cervantes's contributions to literature, explore his personal history, and address the neglect shown to his biography prior to this publication. The opening of "Vida de Cervantes" sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of Cervantes’s life, emphasizing the need for an authoritative biography of such an influential figure in literature. Mayans initiates his narrative by discussing Cervantes's obscured beginnings and the challenges he faced, such as his time as a soldier and eventual captivity, which profoundly influenced his writing. The author notes that despite Cervantes's significant impact, his life remained inadequately documented until Mayans took on the task, aiming to honor Cervantes and rectify the injustices against his memory. This biographer details early misconceptions about Cervantes's birthplace and upbringing while foregrounding the esteem and popularity that have rightly surrounded his works.
Manuel Fernández y González
El manco de Lepanto episodio de la vida del príncipe de los ingenios, Miguel de Cervantes-Saavedra
"El manco de Lepanto" by Manuel Fernández y González is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story intricately weaves the life of the famed writer Miguel de Cervantes with romantic and comedic elements set against the backdrop of 16th-century Spanish society. Cervantes, while exploring themes of love and misadventure, engages with a beautiful widow named Doña Guiomar, whose life is filled with secrets and troubles. The opening of the novel introduces us to a barbershop in Seville, operated by a man known only as "Viváis-mil-años." He is a colorful character who enjoys his trade, socializing with neighbors, and dabbling in mysterious concoctions. One day, he notices a noblewoman visiting a house with a dubious reputation, rumored to be haunted. As he becomes fascinated by the widow Doña Guiomar, the narrative hints at the intrigues and romances that will unfold, particularly as Cervantes enters the scene, promising a mix of adventure, comedy, and love entangled with the superstitions of the time. The blend of Cervantes’s historical identity and the captivating tale of Doña Guiomar sets a vibrant stage for the ensuing drama.
Carlos Barroso
Cervantes e Portugal : $b curiosidade literaria
"Cervantes e Portugal: curiosidade literaria" by Carlos Barroso is a literary exploration written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the connections between the renowned Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes and Portugal, investigating how Portuguese literature and culture influenced his writings. It combines elements of literary criticism and historical examination, making it a unique contribution to the study of Cervantes. In this book, Barroso delves into various works of Cervantes, such as "Don Quixote" and "Galatea," highlighting references to Portuguese characters, places, and cultural nuances throughout the texts. The analysis reveals how experiences in Portugal and interactions with Portuguese figures may have shaped Cervantes’ literary output. Barroso points out specific anecdotes, character depictions, and interactions that illustrate the intertwined literary heritage of Spain and Portugal, suggesting that Cervantes' relationships and insights from his time in Lisbon enriched his creative endeavors. Through diligent research, the author brings to light the often-overlooked aspects of Cervantes' works that reflect Portuguese influences, affirming the significance of this cultural connection.
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