Castaneda, James A.2009-06-042009-06-041997Means, Henry Furman, III. "La sociedad de la edad de oro en "Don Quijote de la Mancha"." (1997) Master’s Thesis, Rice University. <a href="https://hdl.handle.net/1911/17109">https://hdl.handle.net/1911/17109</a>.https://hdl.handle.net/1911/17109In Don Quixote, Cervantes presents a detailed portrayal of Golden Age Spanish society. Although this aspect of the novel has been noted throughout the centuries by various authors, we feel that there are new commentaries to be made on this subject, particularly with regards to how Cervantes criticizes society. He accomplishes his criticism through parody, especially in the form of comical episodes and humorous dialogue made by the characters in Don Quixote. Since humor is usually constructive in parodying society, the unique humor found in Don Quixote enables Cervantes to inform his readers of examples of society's ills and the desires of many people to promote themselves to a higher social status. Contrary to the pessimistic reactions against society's ills found in the works of his contemporaries, Cervantes manages to show a humorous and more optimistic response. This is evident since he reveals the redeeming qualities of the Spanish people.111 p.application/pdfspaCopyright is held by the author, unless otherwise indicated. Permission to reuse, publish, or reproduce the work beyond the bounds of fair use or other exemptions to copyright law must be obtained from the copyright holder.Modern languageRomance literatureThesisTHESIS SPAN. 1997 MEANS