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Don Quixote's countenance before and after losing his teeth
1Department of Clinical Dentistry, Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, C/Tulipán s/n., 28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain. antonio.delvalle@urjc.es
Journal of Dental Research
|March 13, 2009
Summary
Don Quixote's "Knight of the Woeful Countenance" epithet stems from dental loss, causing facial changes. This study visually reconstructs his imagined appearance based on Cervantes' descriptions.
Area of Science:
- Medical Humanities
- Literary Anatomy
- Artistic Reconstruction
Background:
- The epithet "Knight of the Woeful Countenance" for Don Quixote is widely recognized.
- Cervantes' original intent behind this epithet is often overlooked.
- The epithet relates to specific physical characteristics of the character.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lesser-known origins of Don Quixote's epithet.
- To analyze the anatomical implications of the epithet as described by Cervantes.
- To visually recreate Don Quixote's facial appearance based on these findings.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Cervantes' text to identify the basis for the epithet.
- Understanding the anatomical consequences of tooth and molar loss.
- Collaboration with an illustrator for a scientifically informed visual reconstruction.
Main Results:
- The epithet "Knight of the Woeful Countenance" directly relates to Don Quixote's loss of molars and incisors.
- This dental loss resulted in a reduced vertical facial dimension.
- Sagging cheeks and deepened facial furrows contribute to his sorrowful appearance.
Conclusions:
- Cervantes intentionally linked Don Quixote's epithet to specific dental and facial changes.
- The visual reconstruction provides a novel interpretation of the character's appearance.
- This study offers a deeper understanding of Cervantes' characterization through anatomical detail.
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