The Voyage to Parnassus, the Siege of Numantia, and the Treaty of Algiers

Considered by many as the greatest of all Spanish authors, Miguel de Cervantes is most well-known of course for "Don Quixote," a work of such literary impact that its historical importance cannot be understated. Unfortunately Cervantes' other works are often overlooked and characterized as inferior to his masterpiece. While his other writings never gained the popularity of "Don Quixote," he did author several other works that are worthy of consideration. Amongst these are "The Voyage to Parnassus," "The Siege of Numantia," and "The Treaty of Algiers." Considered by some as Cervantes best work next to "Don Quixote," "The Voyage to Parnassus" is a comedic work first published in 1614 which satirizes his lyrical contemporaries. "The Siege of Numantia" is a dramatic tragedy composed around 1582 which follows the tradition of classic ancient Greek and Roman epics like Virgil's "Aeneid" and Lucan's "Pharsalia." Another play, "The Treaty of Algiers," deals with the life of Christian slaves in Algiers and is based on Cervantes' own experiences as a captive of the Moors.