Don Quixote · Chapter
In which the doubtful question of Mambrino's helmet and the packsaddle is finally settled, with other adventures that occurred in truth and earnest explained
The barber insists the basin is a basin and the packsaddle a packsaddle, but Don Quixote and his friends, playing along with his delusions, hold a mock vote to declare the basin a helmet and the packsaddle a caparison.
What happens
The barber insists the basin is a basin and the packsaddle a packsaddle, but Don Quixote and his friends, playing along with his delusions, hold a mock vote to declare the basin a helmet and the packsaddle a caparison. The joke spreads, causing confusion and laughter. An officer of the Holy Brotherhood recognizes Don Quixote from a warrant for freeing the galley slaves and tries to arrest him, leading to a scuffle. Don Fernando intervenes, and the dispute is temporarily resolved, though tensions remain.
Themes in this chapter
Reality vs. Illusion
The central dispute over the basin and packsaddle highlights the clash between objective reality and Don Quixote's enchanted perception, with others deliberately playing along.
Chivalry and Idealism
Don Quixote's defense of knight-errantry against the officers' warrant shows his unwavering commitment to his chivalric ideals, even in the face of legal authority.
Justice and Morality
The arrest warrant for freeing the galley slaves raises questions about the morality of Don Quixote's actions versus the law, as he views his deeds as virtuous.
Characters to notice
- Don Quixote
Insists the basin is Mambrino's helmet and the packsaddle a caparison, but defers to others due to perceived enchantments in the inn.
- Sancho Panza
Observes the chaos and comments on the enchantments of the inn, fearing for his master's safety.
- Don Fernando
Orchestrates the mock vote to settle the dispute and later intervenes to separate Don Quixote from the officer.
- The Priest
Supports the joke by agreeing that the basin is a helmet and the packsaddle a caparison.
- Cardenio
Joins in the amusement, backing the delusion for entertainment.
- Maritornes
Joins the landlady in crying for help during the scuffle with the officers.
Key passages
“What do you think now, gentlemen, of what these gentles say, when they want to make out that this is a helmet?”
The barber asks the company how they can believe the basin is a helmet.
The barber expresses disbelief at the collective delusion.
“I will take the votes of the gentlemen in secret, and declare the result clearly and fully.”
Don Fernando proposes a secret ballot to decide the nature of the objects.
Don Fernando orchestrates the mock vote to humor Don Quixote.
“Help for the Holy Brotherhood! and that you may see I demand it in earnest, read this warrant which says this highwayman is to be arrested.”
The officer calls for assistance, showing the warrant for Don Quixote's arrest.
The officer identifies Don Quixote as the fugitive who freed the galley slaves.