Don Quixote 

Gustave Doré’s engraving captures Don Quixote on horseback by the seashore, beneath a sky studded with stars. The lance pointing upwards evokes a yearning, a spiritual aspiration. This symbol, deeply rooted in the medieval knightly tradition, represents not only physical prowess but also moral rectitude and a quest for higher ideals. Consider how this upward-pointing spear echoes in other artworks, such as the classical depictions of the goddess Athena, spear in hand, symbolizing wisdom and strategic power. Yet, in Quixote, the lance seems almost futile, contrasting the heavens with the earth-bound reality of his quest. The starry sky, a timeless motif, serves as a psychological mirror, reflecting our innermost dreams and fears. Throughout history, from ancient astrological charts to Van Gogh's swirling nightscapes, stars have represented both hope and the vast, unknowable aspects of human existence. This potent image continues to engage viewers on a deep, subconscious level, reminding us of our own quests.