Miguel+Cervantes

=Miguel Cervantes= Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra was a Spanish poet, playwright, and novelist who many consider to be the greatest writer in history! His most famous work is the 17th century novel //Don Quixote.// Born in 1547, Cervantes was a contemporary of English playwright and poet William Shakespeare. In fact, the two men are considered to be the greatest writers of their time, both died on the same day - April 23, 1616. Because of the popularity of both authors, April 23rd is celebrated around the world as "The Day of the Book."

Besides his writing, Cervantes led an interesting life. Originally from Castile, he left his home as a young man and some mystery surrounds the reasons why. Some believe he was merely a student traveling around, but other sources indicate that he was "a sword wielding fugitive of justice." Either way, Cervantes wound up in Rome, studying Renaissance art and literature throughout Italy. Eventually he returned home and enlisted in the Spanish Navy, fighting in naval battles against the Ottoman Empire in events that he claimed to be proud of because his actions helped to shape world history. During these battle, Cervantes suffered three gunshot wounds - two in the chest and one that caused him to lose the use of his left arm.

In 1575, when Cervantes was set to return to Spain, he was captured by Algerian pirates and actually thought up many parts of //Don Quixote// while being held ransom as a prisoner of war. He spent about five years as a slave, attempting escape four times, before his parents were able to pay a ransom and return him home to Madrid. As he began his career as a writer, many of the elements from his adventures found their way into his stories.