Blue Valley Libraries: Political Cartoons: Analyze

Interpreting a Political Cartoon

When you are trying to interpret any editorial cartoon, just remember to: look at the picture; then, look at the BIGGER picture!

Look at the picture. First, take a look at the images and text in the cartoon, and describe what you see. Is there anything that looks familiar?
Look at the BIGGER picture.

Next, think about what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present. What is the artist of the cartoon trying to tell you?

Political Cartoon Questions

Source of Cartoon: ________________________________

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

2. Are there any real people in the cartoon? Who?

3. Are there symbols in the cartoon? What are they and what do they represent?

4. What is the cartoonist’s opinion about the topic in the cartoon?

5. Do you agree or disagree with the cartoonist’s opinion? Why?

6. What is the title of this cartoon? Or what title would you give it?

Pop History Dig Exploring the History & Power of Popular Culture

Daryl Cagle The Cagle Post Cartoons & Commentary

New York Times Cartoon Arts International

USA Today Daily Editorial Cartoons