The narration of Don Quixote is intentionally shifting and unreliable. The point of view shifts from first to third-person omniscient, and the voice of the narrator is inhabited by at least three separate figures. As the story is told, the narrator often interrupts its own telling, almost becoming a character in the story itself. Throughout this shifting narration, the tone also swings between comedic and satirical to tender and understanding. How do these choices enable the author to develop meaningful characters and to convey themes about realism and idealism? How do his choices affect you as a reader?

The intentional shifts in narration in "Don Quixote" create a multifaceted understanding of the characters, allowing readers to perceive them from various perspectives and thereby enriching their complexity. By oscillating between comedic and satirical tones, as well as tender moments, Cervantes effectively illustrates the conflict between realism and idealism, where Don Quixote’s lofty aspirations stand in stark contrast to the mundane realities of his world. This narrative fluidity invites readers to reflect on their own perceptions of heroism and folly, prompting a deeper engagement with the text. Ultimately, these choices foster a dynamic reading experience that compels us to question the nature of truth and the balance between dreams and reality.