“When in Rome, do as the Romans do”

The proverb “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” is put into practice when Sancho sets aside his recent troubles and joins the company around him. In the scene, adaptation is not an abstract rule: he watches the pilgrims, asks Ricote for his wine flask, and drinks as they do.

Wording and Meaning

The narration gives the proverb in Sancho’s own variant: “when thou art at Rome do as thou seest,” making imitation of those present its emphasis. The familiar canonical wording evokes the same principle: fit one’s conduct to local custom rather than insist on doing things differently.

The Proverb in Use

Sancho sees Ricote, a Morisco living in disguise, and the pilgrims share food and wine from their travel provisions. Acting on the proverb, Sancho asks Ricote for his bota and takes aim like the others; the narration says he does so with no less enjoyment. The saying thus moves directly from observation to action: Sancho copies the company’s way of drinking and joins its conviviality.

Comic and Social Effect

The scene makes the proverb practical and comic. Sancho follows the pilgrims’ collective gesture so thoroughly that he becomes part of their gathering, while their friendly greeting—“Espanoli y Tudesqui tuto uno: bon compano”—and his reply, “Bon compano, jur a Di!” turn the moment into an improvised exchange across languages. For a while, eating and drinking displace thoughts of the cares connected with his governorship. The proverb’s force here is modest but immediate: adapting to company brings Sancho temporary fellowship and relief.