This lesson follows Cervantes from his uncertain early years to his military service and captivity. These experiences shaped his life and later writing.
Miguel de Cervantes was generally believed to have been born around 29 September 1547 in Alcalá de Henares. He was the second son of Rodrigo de Cervantes, a barber-surgeon, and Leonor de Cortinas. His family moved frequently, in part because Rodrigo struggled with debt and searched for work. The family lived in several places, including Córdoba, Seville, and Madrid.
All flashcards
What is generally accepted about Cervantes’s birth?
He was generally believed to have been born around 29 September 1547 in Alcalá de Henares, although some details of his early life remain uncertain.
What happened to Cervantes at the Battle of Lepanto?
He was wounded three times; one wound left his left hand and arm unusable. He later became known as *El manco de Lepanto*.
Where did Cervantes find work after leaving Spain in 1569?
He found work in Rome in the household of Giulio Acquaviva, who later became a cardinal.
How did Cervantes become a captive?
In 1575, Ottoman corsairs captured the ship carrying him and his brother while they were sailing toward Barcelona, then took them to Algiers for ransom.
Who helped Cervantes return to Spain?
The Trinitarians, a religious order known for ransoming Christian captives, secured his release in 1580.
Quiz questions
In which city is Cervantes generally believed to have been born?Answer: Alcalá de Henares
What was Rodrigo de Cervantes’s occupation?Answer: Barber-surgeon
What lasting injury did Cervantes receive at the Battle of Lepanto?Answer: His left hand and arm became unusable.
Approximately how long was Cervantes held captive in Algiers?Answer: Nearly five years
Which group secured Cervantes’s release from captivity in 1580?Answer: The Trinitarians