Activity Overview
The adjective quixotic comes from the character Don Quixote. By definition, quixotic refers to a hero who is a dreamer, idealistic, and one who fights against extraordinary odds or obstacles, regardless what other people think of him, and often to his own detriment. They embark on what appear to be impossible quests and succeed through their ironic failures.
Don Quixote, the origin of this term, is its prime example; however, there are numerous other characters throughout literature who also fit this archetype. Some include: Romeo and Juliet, John the Savage, Doctor Pangloss, Prince Myshkin, Vladimir and Estragon, and Walter Mitty.
A fun activity to do with students to ask them to come up with a character map and depict and create a heroes journey diagram for three characters from literature they have read that fit the description of a quixotic hero!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective:Create a spider map that depicts three characters from literature that fit the description of a quixotic hero.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment” and give your storyboard a name.
- In the center title box, write, "Quixotic Heroes in Literature".
- Write the characters' names in the title boxes.
- Give examples for each character.
- Create illustrations for each using appropriate scenes, characters, items, and text.
- Save and exit when you are done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The adjective quixotic comes from the character Don Quixote. By definition, quixotic refers to a hero who is a dreamer, idealistic, and one who fights against extraordinary odds or obstacles, regardless what other people think of him, and often to his own detriment. They embark on what appear to be impossible quests and succeed through their ironic failures.
Don Quixote, the origin of this term, is its prime example; however, there are numerous other characters throughout literature who also fit this archetype. Some include: Romeo and Juliet, John the Savage, Doctor Pangloss, Prince Myshkin, Vladimir and Estragon, and Walter Mitty.
A fun activity to do with students to ask them to come up with a character map and depict and create a heroes journey diagram for three characters from literature they have read that fit the description of a quixotic hero!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective:Create a spider map that depicts three characters from literature that fit the description of a quixotic hero.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment” and give your storyboard a name.
- In the center title box, write, "Quixotic Heroes in Literature".
- Write the characters' names in the title boxes.
- Give examples for each character.
- Create illustrations for each using appropriate scenes, characters, items, and text.
- Save and exit when you are done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Quixotic Hero Activity
Make Quixotic Hero Lessons Relevant to Younger Students
Connect classic quixotic heroes to modern characters your students know. This helps them see how idealism appears in familiar stories.
Choose age-appropriate stories with quixotic heroes
Select books, movies, or cartoons with dreamer characters who face big challenges. Examples: Percy Jackson, Moana, or The Lorax.
Lead a class discussion on idealism and big dreams
Invite students to share examples of times they or others have tried something difficult for a good cause. This builds empathy and personal connection.
Guide students to create their own quixotic hero
Have each student invent a character with a big, unusual goal. Encourage them to draw or write about their hero's journey and challenges.
Celebrate creative efforts and discuss learning moments
Showcase student work and highlight positive risks their heroes take. Discuss how 'failing' can sometimes be heroic.
Frequently Asked Questions about Quixotic Hero Activity
What is a quixotic hero in literature?
A quixotic hero is a character who is idealistic, dreams big, and pursues seemingly impossible quests, often facing overwhelming odds and sometimes failing in ironic or meaningful ways. The term comes from Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes.
How can I teach students about quixotic heroes with a class activity?
Ask students to create a spider map or hero’s journey diagram for three quixotic heroes from literature, including character traits, examples from the text, and visual illustrations. This interactive project helps deepen understanding of the archetype.
What are some examples of quixotic heroes besides Don Quixote?
Other well-known quixotic heroes include Romeo and Juliet, John the Savage, Doctor Pangloss, Prince Myshkin, Vladimir and Estragon, and Walter Mitty. Each displays idealism and pursues challenging or unrealistic goals.
What’s the objective of the Quixotic Hero Activity for students?
The main objective is to have students identify and analyze three literary characters who fit the quixotic hero archetype by creating a detailed spider map with examples and illustrations for each.
What’s the best way for students to illustrate quixotic heroes in a storyboard?
Students should use scenes, items, and characters from the stories to visually represent each hero’s journey, labeling key traits and moments that show their quixotic nature, making the storyboard both creative and informative.
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