Skeleton Crew: Wim the Knight Errant and Don Quixote ties

As a seasoned gamer and literature enthusiast with a penchant for tales that blend the fantastical with the relatable, I must say that “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” has truly captured my heart. The references to classic films like “The Goonies” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” were delightful surprises, but it was when I started recognizing similarities between Wim and Don Quixote that I was truly hooked.

In the new release of “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,” there are numerous sources of inspiration and tributes to explore. The narrative brought to mind “The Goonies” and left me half-expecting the appearance of Indiana Jones alongside the young characters. Reminiscent of the iconic Los Angeles skyline in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” the cityscape also appeared. As the tale unfolded, I found myself noticing a resemblance between Wim and a character from a 1605 novel, which prompted me to revisit that work for clarification.

Skeleton Crew’s Wim has many traits of Don Quixote

People who stray from the usual path are often referred to as “quixotic,” a term derived from the 1605 novel “The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha” by Miguel de Cervantes. The protagonist, Don Quixote, hails from an inconsequential place called “The Stain.” He is known for his excessive book reading and wild imagination, which leads him to embark on chivalric adventures and champion virtue. More often than not, these endeavors end unfavorably. Perhaps you’ve heard of his ill-fated attempt to battle a windmill, an encounter he unfortunately loses.

It’s plausible to suggest that Wim is a knight, but not of his current realm. He immerses himself so deeply in tales of chivalry, finding joy and devotion in their study, that he often overlooks practical matters like hunting and managing his household. This behavior might remind you of Don Quixote (using the 1612 translation by Thomas Shelton), who devoted himself wholeheartedly to knightly books and neglected other activities. Miguel describes Alfonso as someone who was enamored with such stories and eagerly anticipated…the prospect of Endless Adventure.

In the opening episode of “Skeleton Crew,” titled “This Could Be A Real Adventure,” we witness Neel and Wim enacting scenes reminiscent of stories found in works like those by Cervantes, right at the tram stop.

His fantasy was filled with those things that he read, of enchantments, quarrels, battles, challenges, wounds, wooings, loves, tempests, and other impossible follies.

Miguel de Cervantes

Wim, who sketches during lessons and immerses himself in tales of Lina the Jedi Knight when faced with difficulties, appears to share a similar spirit. It’s perfectly fine for him to be such an imaginative child, and he certainly embodies the values of the Jedi Knights. When asked about his aspirations, Wim expresses a desire to truly make a difference, saying “I want to help people, you know? Like if there’s trouble or something.” However, Fara, the Undersecretary, has told him that “we all have a role in the greater endeavor,” but he struggles to understand why this should hinder his ambition to positively impact the world.

As a devoted fan, I must admit, Wim might not embody the chivalry of a classic knight errant, but he certainly stands his ground against oppressors and colossal obstacles, often finding himself in over his depth. Bravely taking charge of the Onyx Cinder, he may be unaware of its intricacies, yet that doesn’t deter him from attempting to meet every challenge head-on.

I’m looking forward to watching him overcome his personal struggles, as it appears that perseverance is a recurring motif in Skeleton Crew. After all, as Miguel de Cervantes wisely noted, “It takes courageous hearts not only to endure hardships but also to rejoice during good times.

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2024-12-04 19:51

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