Distinguished man of letters Ilan Stavans believes Miguel de Cervantes Don Quixote de la Mancha invented modern consciousness. In these lectures, Stavans explores the works impact within Renaissance Spain and discusses Cervantes career as a soldier, tax collector, and failed playwright. Stavans also focuses on the baroque style and the way Spain has built its national identity around Don Quixote. With a wealth of insight, these enlightening lectures are invaluable both for those already passionate about Cervantes masterpiece and for those only about to discover its wonders.