Don Quixote · Chapter
Dedication explained
Cervantes dedicates the second part of Don Quixote to the Count of Lemos, mentioning the impending completion of his work 'Persiles y Sigismunda' and his refusal of an invitation from the Emperor of China to establish a Spanish-language col
What happens
Cervantes dedicates the second part of Don Quixote to the Count of Lemos, mentioning the impending completion of his work 'Persiles y Sigismunda' and his refusal of an invitation from the Emperor of China to establish a Spanish-language college, citing his ill health and lack of funds, while expressing gratitude for the Count's patronage.
Themes in this chapter
Literature and Metafiction
Cervantes directly addresses the existence of a fraudulent sequel, blurring the line between fiction and reality as he defends his own work.
Characters to notice
- Miguel de Cervantes
Author of the dedication, addressing the Count of Lemos and discussing his works.
- Don Quixote
Referenced as the character being sent forth to dispel the false second part.
Key passages
“I said, if I remember well, that Don Quixote was putting on his spurs to go and render homage to Your Excellency. Now I say that 'with his spurs, he is on his way.'”
Cervantes reminds the Count that he previously promised Don Quixote would come to pay respects, and now confirms the knight is en route.
This metaphorical language signals the imminent publication of the second part.
“He asked me, or to be truthful, he begged me to send him Don Quixote , for he intended to found a college where the Spanish tongue would be taught, and it was his wish that the book to be read should be the History of Don Quixote .”
The Emperor of China requested a copy of Don Quixote to use as a textbook in a new Spanish-language college.
Highlights the international fame of the novel and Cervantes' playful refusal.