Here's why:
* Formal awards were not common in that era. Literature awards as we know them today were not established until much later.
* Cervantes lived in a time of great cultural and political upheaval. Spain was experiencing a decline in power, and literature was not seen as a central focus of national prestige.
* Cervantes's work was controversial at times. His critiques of society and his portrayal of lower-class characters were not always well-received by the elites.
Although he didn't receive formal awards, Cervantes's literary legacy continues to be recognized through:
* The Nobel Prize in Literature: While Cervantes himself didn't receive it, the prize has been awarded numerous times to other authors whose work echoes his themes and style.
* The Premio Cervantes: This is a prestigious award established in Spain to recognize lifetime achievement in the Spanish language.
* The Miguel de Cervantes Prize: This award is given annually to a person or institution for their contribution to the promotion of Spanish language and culture.
While he may not have received awards in his own time, Cervantes's work continues to be celebrated and honored today.