Surrealism: Origins and Manifesto

This lecture delves into the origins and key elements of surrealism, a movement that defied established conventions and standards in the early 20th century. Led by André Breton, surrealism encompassed various art forms and aimed to express thought without the control of reason. The lecture explores the literary roots of surrealism, its ideological underpinnings, and its expansion beyond Paris to Belgium and internationally. It also delves into the artistic influences on surrealism, such as Italian futurism and metaphysical painting. René Magritte's life and work are examined, focusing on his rejection of psychoanalysis and his unique artistic identity marked by paradoxical themes.