46 pages 1 hour read

Dale Wasserman

Man of La Mancha

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1965

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Man of La Mancha follows Cervantes in a 16th-century Spanish prison, where he defends his manuscript by enacting the story of Don Quixote. Don Quixote, imagining himself a knight, seeks chivalrous adventures with his companion Sancho. He mistakes an inn for a castle and a barmaid, Aldonza, for a noblewoman named Dulcinea. Despite his delusions, Don Quixote's ideals inspire others even as he faces harsh realities.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Man of La Mancha by Dale Wasserman receives applause for its compelling adaptation of Cervantes' classic, replete with memorable music and poignant themes. Critics commend its passionate performances and imaginative staging. Some find the narrative pacing uneven, but most agree it captures the spirit of quixotic pursuit. Overall, it’s a celebrated theatrical gem.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Man of La Mancha?

Readers who relish inspirational tales of idealism and chivalry, akin to Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote, will enjoy Dale Wasserman's Man of La Mancha. This audience appreciates profound themes layered with whimsical adventure, much like those found in Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist.

RecommendedReading Age

14+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Play: Drama

Humor

Topics

Music

Education

Themes

Natural World: Appearance & Reality

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance