logo

39 pages 1 hour read

Transl. Richard Seaver, Transl. Helen R. Lane, André Breton

Manifestoes of Surrealism

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1924

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Manifestoes of Surrealism is a collection of writings by André Breton, detailing the philosophy and processes underpinning the Surrealist movement, including automatic writing, as outlined in the first "Manifesto of Surrealism" (1924). It covers Breton's interest in the subconscious, critiques of the art world, and his left-wing political views, with key texts like "Soluble Fish," the "Second Manifesto of Surrealism" (1929), and various speeches.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews of Manifestoes of Surrealism by André Breton, translated by Richard Seaver and Helen R. Lane, highlight its insightful exploration of surrealist principles and historical significance. Critics praise the translators' fidelity to Breton's original tone and vision. However, some note the challenging prose and abstruse concepts may deter casual readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Manifestoes of Surrealism?

A reader who enjoys Manifestoes of Surrealism would likely have a keen interest in avant-garde literature, art history, and philosophy. Similar readers might appreciate The First Manifesto of Surrealism by André Breton or The Interpretation of Dreams by Sigmund Freud, appreciating the exploration of the subconscious and radical artistic movements.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

France • 1920s

Publication Year

1924

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.