How Does Don Quixto Characterize Sancho As A Human

The desire for food, drink and to avoid pain are all natural desires. In a sense, they are almost purely animalistic; as all animals need to eat, drink, and avoid physical attacks to stay alive. What characterizes Sancho as a human is his relationship to people around him. He begins this passage by saying he would be “happy” if Don Quixote complained “when something hurt him.” Presumably, Sancho would feel more connected to Don Quixote if Don Quixote complained because that would be an attribute that they share. Sancho also looks up to his master Don Quixote for justification of his complaining. He asks whether not complaining also applies to the “squires of the knights-errant.” Cognizant to his master’s reputation, he offers to change his nature in order to comply with Don Quixote’s code.

Don Quixote’s and Sancho’s relationship has an intimate dimension to it. Each delights in each other’s company. Don Quixote is amused by Sancho’s “simplemindedness.” Sancho stays with Don Quixote not merely in pursuit of the ínsula which was promised him. While he at times asks about the ínsula and his material rewards, this passage is an instance where Sancho has stopped thinking about these “promises” of both wealth and glory. In letting his preoccupation about “work” and his rewards for working go, Sancho finds himself in a state of “sheer pleasure.” This pleasure is so great that he can overcome his natural desire to avoid danger, the possibility of pain. Sancho has overcome his animal-like tendencies because of the pleasure he gets from “seeking adventures” with his master and friend Don Quixote. Sancho’s humanity thus comes out of his relationship with Don