Don Quixote and The Border Town: A Comparison of 
Literary Creation Characteristics Between China and 
the West

Hui Zhuge; Boye Zheng*

Don Quixote and The Border Town: A Comparison of Literary Creation Characteristics Between China and the West

Hui Zhuge, Boye Zheng*

Abstract

This comparative study examines the literary masterpieces Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes and The Border Town by
Shen Congwen, focusing on their historical and cultural contexts, character development, and narrative techniques. Despite originating from
different eras and geographical locations, both novels provide a rich exploration of the human experience through the lens of their protagonists journeys. Don Quixote critiques the chivalric ideals of the Spanish Golden Age through its metafictional narrative, while The Border
Town reflects on the impact of modernization on traditional Chinese society. The study highlights the authors use of character development
to delve into themes of identity, perception, and the boundaries between reality and illusion. The narrative techniques and structures of both
novels are analyzed, revealing the complexity of their storytelling and thematic depth. Ultimately, the comparison underscores the universality
of literatures ability to capture and convey the human condition across diverse cultural landscapes.

Keywords

Don Quixote; The Border Town; Comparative literature; Character development

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