Entering the popular imaginary (2)

The spirit of Cervantes: or, Don Quixote abridged. Being a selection of the episodes and incidents, with a summary sketch of the story of that popular romance. In two parts, with superior coloured engravings. London: Printed for F. C. & J. Rivington, 1820. Waddleton.b.9.649

This adaptation of Don Quixote adheres to the 18th century idea that Cervantes ruined Spain’s good reputation and traditions by satirising chivalry. The introductory notes tell us that: “Cervantes “[gave] a death blow to the best energies of Spain”.

But the legendary potential of Don Quixote as a heroic rather than satiric figure starts to emerge. It is also a “popular romance” that deserves to be abridged, softened and made accessible “to domestic circles”, only presenting the “most brilliant proofs of genius”.

The book copies four hand-coloured engravings from Francis Hayman’s illustrations for a 1755 London edition, aimed at pleasing a progressively larger and more diverse audience.

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