Analyzing an Editorial Cartoon

Introducing Techniques: Symbolism

Exaggeration »Exaggerate: represent (something) as being larger, greater, better, or worse than it really is. »Example: The fish I caught was this big.

Exaggeration of an Editorial Cartoon

Hmm ?!?! »What does this cartoon exaggerate? »What does the cartoon imply is most people’s reason for not recycling? »How does exaggeration reinforce the message of the cartoon?

Caricature

Einstein… »Compare the caricature of Albert Einstein to his photograph. What physical characteristics has the cartoonist exaggerated? »What is the effect of these changes?

Analogies: »The Internet is like a highway. »An easy task is like child’s play. »A crowded rock concert is like a zoo.

Humor Artists often use humor to communicate their point. They force the viewer to laugh at themselves or at the situation.

Labeling »The cartoonist will often label people or objects in a cartoon to make sure the viewer clearly understands them.

Now let’s look at one together. What is labeled in this cartoon? How does the label help you understand the central idea (message) of the cartoon? What is the central idea this artist is communicating?

Analyzing an Editorial Cartoon