Answer :
Final answer:
Political cartoons use symbolism and exaggeration to critique societal and political issues, revealing the cartoonist's perspective on current affairs or historical events.
Explanation:
Cartoons on politics offer perceptive criticism of governmental actions, social mores, and times of turmoil and transition. To explain difficult concepts in a way that is visually appealing, they employ symbolism, exaggeration, labeling, comparison, and irony. Often, a cartoonist's deep insights into their viewpoint on historical events or current situations are revealed through what at first glance seems silly or unsophisticated.
Analyzing a political cartoon involves identifying the people or objects depicted, the symbols used and what they represent, and the issue or message the cartoonist is addressing. For example, in the "Forty-Millionaire Carnegie in his Great Double Role" political cartoon, one might examine the exaggerated features or objects to understand the cartoonist's critique of societal or political issues, often aimed at highlighting contradictions or abuses of power.
The Library of Congress and noted cartoonists like Ann Telnaes emphasize that editorial cartoons are powerful tools for social commentary, not merely humor or entertainment. They challenge viewers to consider different perspectives on power, political decisions, and societal changes, thereby facilitating a deeper understanding of the times in which they were created.
