Multiple solutions to the "problem of the window" : a historiographic approach to René Magritte's paintings-within-paintings (thesis)

Abstract

I intend to look at the historiography of interpretations of Magritte's Fair Captive series to find the strongest methodology for the series' specifically. Because Magritte returned to the Fair Captive theme so often throughout his career, I believe that finding an effective methodology for these twenty-five paintings and gouaches will suggest the most effective way to think about Magritte in the twenty-first century, especially in the context of contemporary artists who claim him as an influence. [page 2 of introduction]