Manifestoes of Surrealism

Do "Soluble Fish" and "A Letter to Seers" reveal truths about the human subconscious, as Breton intended? What do they reveal? Indicate at least three images or symbols that reveal truths about the broader world.

Using the guidelines in the first manifesto of Surrealism, create a paragraph or two of automatic writing, and then analyze your work as if it is a historical Surrealist text.

Breton suggests that Surrealism is inherently leftist. Is this true? Consider the political beliefs of Salvador Dalí in your answer. Is it possible for Surrealism to exist across the political spectrum? Are there contradictions inherent in this prospect?

How did the political and cultural changes of the 1920s to the 1940s influence the evolution of the Surrealist movement?

Compare the first manifesto of Surrealism to Tristan Tzara’s 1924 Dada manifestoes. How do these texts differentiate the movements? What makes them similar?

After the "Second Manifesto of Surrealism," several artists rejected Breton as the leader of the Surrealists. This anti-Breton sentiment was fueled by a phrase from the manifesto: "The simplest surrealist act consists, with revolvers in hand, of descending into the street and shooting at random, as much as possible, into the crowd.” Was this reaction justified? What was Breton's meaning, and why would such an act be considered Surrealist?

Is Breton correct that an overemphasis on logic is detrimental to the world? Cite evidence from the text.

How did Surrealism change after the second Surrealist manifesto was written?