1. CARTOON ANALYSIS GUIDE
Persuasive techniques used in political cartoons

2. Symbolism Simple objects to represent larger concepts
Think: What did the author intend each symbol to represent?

3. Exaggeration
Exaggeration of the physical characteristics of people or things to make a point
Look for characteristics that are overblown
Think: what point was the author trying to make through this technique?

4. Labeling
Cartoonists often label objects or people to make it clear exactly what they represent
Think: why was that label chosen?
Think: does the label enhance the meaning of the object?

5. Analogy
Analogy: comparing two unlike “things” that share certain characteristics
Analogies allow complex issue to be compared with a more familiar issue
Allows situation to be viewed from a different perspective
Think: what is the primary analogy? What two situations are being compared? Is the cartoonist’s point of view more clear once the analogy is understood?