Tell me thy company, and I'll tell thee what thou art

Tell me thy company, and I'll tell thee what thou art

The quote “Tell me thy company, and I'll tell thee what thou art” is a powerful statement that speaks to the influence of the people we surround ourselves with on our own character and behavior. This idea is particularly relevant in the context of the works of Miguel de Cervantes, a Spanish writer widely regarded as one of the greatest novelists in Western literature.

Cervantes is best known for his masterpiece, Don Quixote, a novel that explores themes of chivalry, madness, and the power of imagination. The protagonist, Don Quixote, is a delusional knight who sets out on a series of misadventures with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. Throughout the novel, Don Quixote’s perception of reality is constantly challenged by the people he encounters on his journey, from noble knights to deceitful innkeepers.

In many ways, Don Quixote’s character is shaped by the company he keeps. His obsession with chivalry and his belief in the power of imagination are both influenced by the stories he has read and the people he has met. Similarly, Sancho Panza’s simple and practical nature is a reflection of his own experiences and the values he holds dear.

Cervantes uses the relationship between Don Quixote and Sancho Panza to explore the idea that our character is shaped by the people we choose to surround ourselves with. Don Quixote’s idealism and Sancho Panza’s pragmatism are in constant tension, yet they ultimately complement each other in their quest for adventure and self-discovery.