# Of the resolution Don Quixote formed to turn shepherd and take to a life in the fields while the year for which he had given his word was running its course; with other events truly delectable and happy. explained — Don Quixote

> Chapter companion for Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra.

## What happens

Don Quixote, after his defeat, contemplates a pastoral life during his year of retirement. He and Sancho discuss the possibility of becoming shepherds, adopting pastoral names, and living an idyllic life in the countryside. Don Quixote reflects on Altisidora's love and the disenchantment of Dulcinea, while Sancho expresses skepticism about the whipping required for Dulcinea's disenchantment. They arrive at the meadow where they encountered the shepherdesses, and Don Quixote proposes they emulate the pastoral Arcadia, with plans to include Samson Carrasco, the barber, and the curate in their pastoral fraternity.

## Themes in this chapter

### Chivalry and Idealism

Don Quixote's plan to become a shepherd reflects his idealistic pursuit of a pastoral utopia, blending chivalric romance with rural simplicity.

### Reality vs. Illusion

Sancho's skepticism about the whipping for Dulcinea's disenchantment and the practical challenges of pastoral life contrast with Don Quixote's romanticized vision.

### Friendship and Loyalty

Don Quixote and Sancho's ongoing dialogue about their future life together highlights their loyalty and shared adventures.

## Character check-ins

### Don Quixote

Plans to become a shepherd named Quixotize during his enforced retirement; reflects on Altisidora's love and Dulcinea's disenchantment.

### Sancho Panza

Discusses the pastoral life with Don Quixote, proposes the name Teresona for his shepherdess, and expresses doubt about the whipping for Dulcinea's disenchantment.

### Samson Carrasco

Mentioned as a potential member of the pastoral fraternity, to be called Samsonino or Carrascón.

### Altisidora

Don Quixote wonders if she still loves him after his departure; he recalls her gifts and tears.

### Dulcinea del Toboso

Don Quixote remains devoted to her; her disenchantment is a recurring concern, tied to Sancho's whipping.

### The Priest

Mentioned as a possible shepherd named Curiambro in the pastoral plan.

## Key lines

> If a multitude of reflections used to harass Don Quixote before he had been overthrown, a great many more harassed him since his fall.

Don Quixote was troubled by many thoughts before his defeat, but even more after it.

_Highlights Don Quixote's mental turmoil following his defeat._

> I would have ourselves turn shepherds, at any rate for the time I have to live in retirement.

Don Quixote proposes they become shepherds during his year of retirement.

_Introduces the pastoral plan central to the chapter._

> I cannot persuade myself that the whipping of my backside has anything to do with the disenchantment of the enchanted.

Sancho doubts that whipping himself will disenchant Dulcinea.

_Sancho's skepticism about the magical remedy for Dulcinea's enchantment._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/don_quixote_se/chapters