Don Quixote, Chapter 66 summary
Chapter 66 of 129 · Part 1 · 8 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 66, Don Quixote leaves Barcelona mourning his defeat but commits to keeping his promise of a year at home, while Sancho settles a dispute over a race. They meet Tosilos, whose account contradicts Don Quixote’s belief in enchantment, and Sancho pauses to eat with him before rejoining his master.
What happens
- Leaving Barcelona, Don Quixote blames his own poor judgment for defeat and resolves to honor his promise of a year at home.
- Sancho complains about walking, and Don Quixote rejects their suggestion of hanging up his armor.
- At a village, Sancho rules that a heavier racer must lose weight rather than burden his lighter opponent.
- Don Quixote refuses the farmers’ invitation to drink and continues his journey.
- Tosilos reports his punishment and the girl’s entry into a convent, but Don Quixote insists that enchantment explains his appearance.
- Sancho shares Tosilos’s provisions, acknowledges his master’s madness, and catches up with Don Quixote beside a tree.

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In this chapter
What to notice
Don Quixote accepts responsibility for his defeat rather than treating it only as bad luck. This admission accompanies his determination to keep his promise.
Quick check
How does Sancho propose making the race fair?

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