Political Cartoon Analysis

EDITORIAL CARTOON ANALYSIS

1. What is the event or issue that inspired the cartoon?


The issue that inspired this cartoon was the American Tax structure. Many Americans struggle to make ends meet. With the struggles that people are facing, many dreams are being crushed and many people are living opposite lives than planned.


2. Are there any real people or places in the cartoon? If not, what images are portrayed in the cartoon?


There are no real people or places in the cartoon. However, the characters in the cartoon are supposed to portray two children with high hopes for their future and adults begin to crush their dreams with the reality of our failing tax structure.


3. Identify the specific artistic techniques used in the cartoon (i.e., symbolism, analogy, exaggeration, labeling, and irony). What is the artist trying to show the reader by using these techniques?


The technique that the artist used in this cartoon was exaggeration. The artist is trying to show the reader that although it is unrealistic for a child to become a real life princess or prince, their dreams are still being crushed because of the government.


4. What is the cartoonist's point of view about the topic portrayed in the cartoon? Give examples to support your interpretation.


The cartoonist's point of view about the topic portrayed in the cartoon is that the government is failing to see how many Americans are struggling with finances in today's society. For example, many families are having difficulties keeping the bills paid on time. With that being said, there is no extra money for the families to allow their children to participate in other social activities.


5. Is this cartoon persuasive? Explain why or why not.


I do feel that this cartoon is persuasive. It persuades the viewer to feel sympathetic to the children and want to do something about the way the American tax structure is set up. 


6. What other techniques could the artist have used to make this cartoon more persuasive?


Another technique that the artist could have used to make this cartoon more persuasive would have been to allow for a real-life example instead of using a make believe idea.