This course will study the major episodes of the Don Quixote de La Mancha, one of the most influential works of Spanish and World literature, as well as other selected works written by Cervantes. Emphasis will be given to the author’s unique contribution to the birth of the modern novel and his ingenuity to create stories that transformed all previous literary genres. These readings will be analyzed within its socio-historical context, while exploring a diverse array of topics, such as: love, religion, race, class, magic, madness, and honor, among others. The readings will be complemented by secondary sources, including works of art, films and other forms of modern media. The course will be taught in Spanish. Prerequisite: SPAN 350 or permission of instructor.