The use of Don Quixote in the classroom. Historical review of the editions for schools and teaching paratexts

Abstract

The analysis of didactic paratexts included in school editions of Don Quijote, which came out between the third and fourth hundred anniversary of its publication (1905-2005), allows a general survey of the evolution in the understanding of reading texts and the teaching of language and literature in Spain. At first, the emphasis is on moral issues in the novel and its possibilities for global education in the light of traditional pedagogic, based on encyclopaedic handbooks. Later, its use in the school tends to specialize. In the 30s, the general trend is towards linguistic aspects, with special attention to grammar. This continues until the 60s when it is replaced in favour of better practices in reading comprehension. In the following decade, although school adaptations are still published, anthologies respectful with Cervantes’ original text start to come out. A literary approach to Don Quijote is undertaken and, as time goes by, the proposals are more creative and interdisciplinary. Nowadays, publishing offers have increased and didactic orientations can be found on the market.