Don Quixote, Part 2, Chapter 46 summary

What happens

1. Altisidora pretends to faint at Don Quixote’s approach, and he requests a lute to discourage her supposed passion.
2. The duchess helps plan a prank and sends a page to Teresa Panza with Sancho’s letter and clothes.
3. At eleven at night, Don Quixote plays a guitar and sings about chastity, passing attractions, and his faithfulness to Dulcinea.
4. The pranksters lower cowbells and release cats with bells on their tails, frightening Don Quixote and confusing the household.
5. Don Quixote attacks the cats as enchanters, and one grips his nose until the duke removes it.
6. Altisidora dresses his wounds and blames his rejection of her; the regretful hosts leave him to recover.

In this chapter

What to notice

Don Quixote describes an ordinary cat as a supernatural opponent. His insistence on personal combat prevents him from readily accepting help.

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