Interpreting Political Cartoons

To interpret cartoons: Previous cultural knowledge is usually required. cartoons rely on literary allusions and historical events to a great extent. Without the cultural memory, people are excluded: all jokes become "inside jokes."

The history of political cartoons Canadian newspapers and magazines featured cartoons as early as 1890 Usually caricatures were present (Sir Wilfrid Laurier- below) Caricatures are funny and usually focus or exaggerate certain features of a prominent figure and are used to make statements about the issues of the day Can you think of anyone on TV now who cartoonists often portray as a caricature?

Familiar cartoons from Canadian Political Figures Justin Trudeau Rob Ford

ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS Does the cartoon have a title and what does it mean? What issue or event is the cartoon referring to? What is the setting? Describe what you see. Where and when does the action in the cartoon take place? Who are the people or figures in the cartoon? What is their mood? What are they saying? What other objects, symbols, or words are in the cartoon and what do they mean? (why are they there?)

ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS What comparisons are being made? (if any) Who or what is the cartoonist poking fun at? What is the message of the cartoon? Does the cartoonist get the message across effectively? Why or Why not? How does the cartoonist create humour? What techniques are used to get the message across? Does the cartoonist’s viewpoint differ from yours? Explain

If you could summarize this cartoon in one sentence what would you say? What is the cartoonist trying to convey?

This is a local cartoon – How do we know? Let’s interpret together by answering the questions for interpreting a cartoon!