Don Quixote 

Editor: So, this is Gustave Doré’s engraving, "Don Quixote." It's incredibly detailed, and immediately makes me think of perseverance and maybe a little bit of delusional optimism against all odds. What stands out to you the most? Curator: That's a wonderful initial response! For me, it's the raw, windswept feel of the landscape that pulls me in. Doré wasn’t just illustrating a story; he was conjuring up an entire world. I see this rugged landscape as a physical manifestation of Quixote's internal battles— the relentless terrain echoing his impossible quest. Does the density of the lines almost convey the weight of the delusion? Editor: I think that's insightful! All those tiny lines... It *does* create a feeling of struggle and density. I had thought more about Don Quixote, but now I see Sancho Panza taking the lead – pulling the whole lot back up the hill. He seems exhausted. I hadn’t really considered *his* struggle, just keeping things vaguely real. Curator: Exactly! Look at the way Doré contrasts light and shadow. See how the light illuminates Sancho’s form as he strains forward? And consider the vastness of the landscape against their tiny figures. It really emphasizes that theme of human will against the indifference of the world. It feels…lonely, doesn’t it? It reminds me of when you want to will yourself towards something but there are obstacles preventing you from reaching your end. Ever felt that way in your studies? Editor: Definitely. Deadlines! I hadn't thought about that loneliness either; makes me feel for Sancho *and* Don Quixote now. Curator: I'm so glad! And I hadn’t noticed the perseverance as much before. The beauty of art, isn’t it? We both come away seeing something a little differently.