ANALYSIS: “DULCE ET DECORUM EST”

Step one: Read aloud as a group

Step two: Read independently and respond to comprehension questions below.

Step three: Interpretation and analysis. Read through again, mark an “S” for lines that

connect to the ideas of Surrealism and a “D” for lines that connect to the ideas of Dada

Dada = protest of war/nihilism; Surrealism = uncovering the unconscious mind

ART ANALYSIS

MANIFESTOS A manifesto is a document which sets forth the

principles and goals of an organization. Typically, a manifesto is designed to be widely distributed to the public, and it serves as an official declaration. Often, a manifesto is political in nature, as is the case with the Communist manifesto, although a manifesto can also be employed by artists and other collective groups as a medium of communication. In many instances, a manifesto is highly revolutionary, and is designed to stimulate public dialog.

It is hoped that after reading a manifesto, members of the public will seek out more information about the group that wrote it, creating a growing awareness of and support for a movement.

CREATIVE WRITING Option A: Create your own manifesto!

What ‘revolutionary’ message do you want to send to the public?

How will your manifesto ‘get people going’ and start a conversation?

Be bold! Option B: What was Kirchner’s dream?

When studying the unconscious mind, many psychologists examine dreams

The surrealist painting “Self-Portrait as a Soldier” can be interpreted as a scene from a dream

Write a narrative of Kirchner’s dream in which this image was produced – what was happening in his dream?