Don Quixote is a satirical romance by Cervantes, published in 1605, with a second part appearing in 1615. The work originated as a burlesque on contemporary Spanish ballads and romances, developing in richness and depth into a popular classic, as the tale of Don Quixote, a poor, amiable gentleman of La Mancha whose wits are disordered by his devotion to tales of chivalry. He imagines himself appointed to roam the world in search of adventures on his old horse, Rosinante, accompanied by his 'squire,' the rustic Sancho Panza. In Don Quixote's 'madness,' commonplace objects assume fearful or romantic forms, involving him in absurd adventures with consequences distressing to himself. When a friend forces Don Quixote to face 'reality,' the disillusioned knight resolves to become a shepherd, but dies a few days after his return to his village.