Miguel de Cervantes, in his classic novel "Don Quixote," and Dale Wasserman, the playwright of "Man of La Mancha," both portray the main character, Don Quixote, in somewhat similar but also distinct ways.
In Cervantes' "Don Quixote," the character of Don Quixote, also known as Alonso Quixano, is portrayed as an aging nobleman who becomes delusional after reading too many chivalric romances. He imagines himself as a valiant knight, Don Quixote, and sets out on various adventures to revive chivalry and right the world's wrongs. Cervantes balances Don Quixote's idealistic and noble intentions with his madness and delusions, creating a complex character who grapples with the contrast between his romantic ideals and the harsh realities of the world.
In contrast, Dale Wasserman's adaptation in "Man of La Mancha" focuses more on the idealistic and heroic aspects of Don Quixote. The character is portrayed as a man who, despite his madness, possesses an unwavering belief in the goodness of humanity and a desire to make the world a better place. The musical emphasizes Don Quixote's chivalry and his quest to achieve the impossible dream. While his delusions are acknowledged, they are presented in a more sympathetic light, highlighting the power of imagination and the importance of pursuing one's dreams.
Furthermore, Wasserman's adaptation introduces a dual portrayal of Don Quixote and his alter ego, Miguel de Cervantes, which adds another layer to the character. Cervantes is depicted as a storyteller who uses his imagination to escape the harsh realities of his own life while also drawing inspiration from Don Quixote's unwavering idealism.
In summary, Cervantes' portrayal of Don Quixote in "Don Quixote" emphasizes the character's complexity and inner turmoil, while Wasserman's adaptation in "Man of La Mancha" leans more towards celebrating the character's idealism and his pursuit of the impossible dream. Both interpretations contribute to a deeper understanding of the enduring appeal of the character of Don Quixote and his timeless quest for a better world.