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"For the sake of peace, collect the remnants of war—signs from the past, warnings for the present, and lessons for the future." Miguel de Cervantes (1547–1616).The phrase "tilting at windmills," derived from <<Don Quixote>, remains a metaphor for futile endeavors. (Cervantes)
Miguel de Cervantes (1547–1616) was a Spanish writer widely regarded as one of the greatest authors in world literature and the preeminent figure of Spanish literature. He is best known for his masterpiece Don Quixote, considered the first modern novel and one of the most influential works in the Western literary canon.
Cervantes was born in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, in 1547, the fourth of seven children. His father was a barber-surgeon, and the family struggled financially, which influenced Cervantes' itinerant life. Little is known about his formal education, but he may have studied in Madrid under the guidance of a humanist scholar.
In 1570, Cervantes joined the Spanish military and served as a soldier in the Holy League, participating in the famous Battle of Lepanto in 1571. Despite being wounded in the battle—losing the use of his left hand—he referred to his participation as a source of pride. He continued his military service until 1575 when he was captured by Barbary pirates and enslaved in Algiers. After five years and several failed escape attempts, he was ransomed and returned to Spain in 1580.
Cervantes began writing plays, poetry, and novels upon his return to Spain, though his early works did not bring him much success. His financial struggles persisted, leading him to work as a purchasing agent for the Spanish Armada and a tax collector.
In 1605, Cervantes published The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha, which achieved instant acclaim. The novel satirizes the romantic ideals of chivalry and explores themes of reality, illusion, and the human condition. The second part of Don Quixote was published in 1615, solidifying Cervantes' reputation.
Cervantes passed away on April 22, 1616, in Madrid, one day before William Shakespeare (though the two used different calendars). His work profoundly influenced later literature, inspiring authors worldwide. Today, he is celebrated as a symbol of Spanish culture and literary excellence. The phrase "tilting at windmills," derived from Don Quixote, remains a metaphor for futile endeavors.
短语“向风车挥舞长矛”源自《堂吉诃德》,如今仍然是徒劳无功的象征。