Surrealism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in Europe. It seeks to unlock the unconscious mind and explore the bizarre, dreamlike, and irrational aspects of human experience, often using unexpected juxtapositions and fantastical imagery. Surrealists aimed to challenge conventional perceptions of reality and express deeper truths through art and literature. Notable figures include André Breton, Salvador Dalí, and René Magritte.