Final answer:
Political cartoon analysis involves identifying the characters, symbols, arguments, and exaggerated elements to ascertain the cartoonist's message related to historical or current issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
When analyzing a political cartoon, it is essential to identify and describe the objects or people depicted, as they often symbolize larger concepts or opinions. Noting any symbolic words or phrases present is also key, as they can provide insight into the issue at hand and the cartoonist's perspective on it. For example, if a cartoon has John Bull (representing England) and Uncle Sam (representing the United States) stepping over words like 'isolation' or 'appeasement', these terms could symbolize prevailing attitudes of the respective countries during a particular historical period, such as the lead-up to World War II. Furthermore, determining the main argument presented by the cartoonist, along with any evidence suggested through imagery, exaggeration, or analogy, helps in understanding the cartoonist's message and its effectiveness. If, for instance, objects are exaggerated, it may be to emphasize certain aspects or criticisms regarding political stances, such as in depictions of capitalism. Keeping the social, political, and cultural context in mind can greatly assist in interpreting the cartoon fully and understanding the cartoonist's argument and point of view.