Don Quixote · Chapter
Of what befell Sancho on the road, and other things that cannot be surpassed explained
Sancho Panza, having left his governorship, falls into a deep pit with his donkey Dapple.
What happens
Sancho Panza, having left his governorship, falls into a deep pit with his donkey Dapple. He laments his misfortune, comparing his plight to Don Quixote's enchanted cave adventure. After a night of despair, he is discovered by Don Quixote, who hears his cries and retrieves him with the help of the duke and duchess. Sancho then recounts his governance experience, declaring he prefers serving Don Quixote over being a governor.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Identity
Sancho reflects on his brief governorship, contrasting the burdens of power with his humble origins, and ultimately chooses to return to service.
Friendship and Loyalty
Don Quixote's immediate concern for Sancho's safety and Sancho's decision to return to his master highlight their enduring bond.
Characters to notice
- Sancho Panza
Falls into a pit after leaving his governorship; laments his fate and is rescued by Don Quixote.
- Don Quixote
Hears Sancho's cries, believes he is a soul in torment, and arranges his rescue.
- Dapple
Falls into the pit with Sancho and brays, confirming Sancho's identity.
- The Duke
Helps rescue Sancho and embraces him upon his return.
- The Duchess
Helps rescue Sancho and embraces him upon his return.
Key passages
“I conjure thee by everything that as a Catholic Christian I can conjure thee by, tell me who thou art; and if thou art a soul in torment, tell me what thou wouldst have me do for thee; for as my profession is to give aid and succour to those that need it in this world, it will also extend to aiding and succouring the distressed of the other, who cannot help themselves.”
Don Quixote, thinking Sancho might be a tormented soul, begs him to reveal his identity and offers to help, as his duty is to assist both the living and the dead.
Don Quixote's chivalric idealism extends to the afterlife.
“I entered naked, and naked I find myself; I neither lose nor gain.”
Sancho declares that he came to the governorship with nothing and leaves with nothing, having neither profited nor lost.
Sancho's summary of his honest but unrewarding tenure as governor.