Don Quixote, Part 2, Chapter 17 summary

What happens

1. Sancho hides purchased curds in his master’s helmet, then blames enchanters when Don Quixote discovers the mess.
2. Don Quixote stops a cart carrying two royal lions and threatens the keeper until he agrees to open a cage.
3. The others retreat while Don Quixote dismounts and faces the male lion, which looks out and lies down again.
4. The keeper refuses to provoke the animal and persuades Don Quixote that his unanswered challenge counts as victory.
5. Don Quixote rewards the cart’s attendants and adopts the name Knight of the Lions.
6. He defends his conduct to Don Diego, and they reach the gentleman’s home around two in the afternoon.

In this chapter

What to notice

The warning defines the central dispute. Don Quixote recognizes his recklessness but argues that his calling requires dangerous attempts.

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