The Return of Don Quixote

[1] Chesterton began working on the novel prior to World War I, and returned to it sporadically over the years.

"[4] Librarian Michael Hearne participates in an amateur reenactment play and develops a Don Quixote-like attitude, which gradually foments social revolution and a return to medievalism.

Chesterton continued his track record of consistently entertaining and high quality writing, intermixed with profound thoughts.

[15] While reviews were overwhelmingly positive, the Sheffield Daily Telegraph was disappointed in the didactic plot and longed for his earlier and more entertaining fantasy work.

[18][19] More recently, Chesterton scholar Dale Ahlquist observed that while Hearne is the Quixote figure, it is actually Douglas Murrel who is the main character.