Don Quixote 

Editor: This highly detailed engraving, "Don Quixote," attributed to Gustave Doré, seems to depict a scene straight out of a romantic adventure. I'm immediately struck by the contrast between the grounded, almost domestic foreground with the pottery and the romanticized image of knights on horseback. How do you interpret the symbolism and what do you see in this piece? Curator: This image, like much of Doré's work, invites us to consider the power of narrative in shaping our understanding of the world. Here, Doré isn’t just illustrating Cervantes; he’s engaging with the themes of idealism versus reality, the construction of identity, and even the role of the artist in mediating those things. Notice how Don Quixote and his men are entering what is most likely a rich man’s property and he, being reminded of Dulcinea at the sight of these jars, has been completely consumed by his narrative and fantasy of this courtly romance. This, in my opinion, highlights a subtle yet vital comment on the politics of seeing and remembering, particularly within the context of Romanticism’s fascination with history and heroism. What does the setting tell you about social disparities, considering who controls which narrative and how they are valued? Editor: That's fascinating! I hadn’t considered how the details of setting spoke to broader social critiques. Curator: Exactly. Look closely at the people observing them from above and compare their dress and surroundings with those on horseback. It makes you wonder who ultimately gets to define 'heroism', and for whose benefit. This tension speaks volumes about power structures, doesn't it? Editor: It really does change how I perceive the image. Now, I see a multi-layered commentary instead of a straightforward illustration. Curator: And that's the beauty of engaging with art through a critical lens. It’s not just about what’s depicted, but who’s telling the story and why. Editor: Thanks, I’ve definitely gained a deeper appreciation for how art reflects societal values. Curator: Absolutely! Let’s carry this critical thinking to the next piece!