Miguel de Cervantes
Miguel de Cervantes
Born in 1547, Miguel de Cervantes is known for his contribution to the Spanish language through his writing. In fact, many refer Spanish as "la lengua de Cervantes" (the language of Cervantes). A poet, writer and playwright, Cervantes had a host of skills that were evident amongst his work.
Somewhat of a perfectionist in regards to his masterpiece, Don Quijote, he designed over three hundred images for his main character. Ironically he always remained a rather poor man despite his evergrowing fame. He spent some of his early years being a valet for a priest, then spending 1570 to 1575 enrolled in the army. He then married Catalina de Salazar y Palacios in 1584. His first significant piece of work was in the form of La Galatea.
Cervantes was injured during the war but always looked upon it as a proud moment of his life. He was shot three times, which is no easy feat to recover from no matter who you are, and he would have his left arm amputated due to his injuries. During his time fighting he was eventually captured and kept as a slave for many years whilst he faced a fierce battle upon the ship he was serving. Eventually recieivng a ransom, his captives agreed for him to be freed. This certainly inspired a lot of creativity in his work.
Cervantes' best work
- Don Quixote
- La Gitanilla
- El Amante Liberal
- Rinconete y Cortadillo
- La Española Inglesa
- El Licenciado Vidriera
