Political CartoonsPolitical Cartoons
Analysis and Interpretation in the Classroom
John M. Jack
Analysis and Interpretation in the Classroom
John M. Jack
Understanding Political Cartoons
• We must understand and be able to identify symbolism, exaggeration, labeling, analogy, and irony
Symbolism
• Cartoonists use objects, or symbols, to stand for larger concepts or ideas
• After symbols are identified, think about the intent of the artist
Exaggeration
• Sometimes cartoonists overdo, or exaggerate, the physical characteristics of people or things in order to make a point
• Look for exaggeration and try to decide what point the cartoonist was trying to make by its use.
Labeling
• Cartoonists sometimes label objects or people to make it clear what they stand for.
• Does the label make the meaning of the object more clear?
Analogy
• By comparing a complex issue or situation with a more familiar one, readers see it from a different perspective.
• What two situations does the cartoon compare? Decide if this comparison makes the cartoonist’s point more clear to you.
Irony
• Irony is the difference between the ways things are and the way things should be. Cartoonists use irony to express their opinion on an issue.
• Does the irony help the cartoonist express his or her opinion more effectively?
Columbia"Peace with all nations, Partiality to none."
Columbia"Peace with all nations, Partiality to none."
by Samuel Harris issued in 1804
Political SymbolsPolitical Symbols
Stranger things have happened. Hold on, and you may walk over the sluggish animal up there yet -Thomas Nast 1879
Southern Chivalry
• What do you notice?
• What is the cartoon trying show?
• What is your interpretation?
Freedmen’s Bureau
• What do you notice?
• What is the cartoon trying show?
• What is your interpretation?
Immigrants Welcome
EMIGRANT.--Can I come in?
UNCLE SAM.--I 'spose you can; there's no law to keep you out.
The Chinese Question
• What do you notice?
• What is the Chinese Question?
• What is your interpretation?