Forget everything you think you know about dusty old classics. Cervantes's Entremeses are like finding a hidden comedy special from the 1600s. These are short, one-act plays meant to be performed in between the acts of a longer, more serious drama—the original 'palate cleansers.'

The Story

There isn't one single story, but a series of vibrant, quick-hitting scenes from everyday life in Cervantes's Spain. In one, two tricksters convince a judge that a simple washbasin is a magical relic. In another, a group of students and a clever servant conspire to help two young lovers outwit their stubborn, miserly father. Each play is a self-contained burst of energy, focusing on ordinary people—not knights or nobles—using their wits to navigate a world full of fools, hypocrites, and obstacles.

Why You Should Read It

This is Cervantes without the epic page count, and he's clearly having a blast. The humor is physical, sly, and surprisingly modern. You root for the clever underdogs and laugh at the pompous buffoons. It shows a side of the author we rarely see: the sharp observer of human silliness, writing with a playful wink. Reading these feels like getting a backstage pass to the vibrant, noisy street life of his time.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves clever dialogue, historical snapshots of life, or just needs a proof that classic literature can be flat-out funny. If you're curious about Cervantes but intimidated by Don Quixote, this is the perfect, joyful place to start. It's also a great pick for theater fans—you can almost see the actors hamming it up on a makeshift stage.