Final answer:
Analysis of political cartoons involves identifying key symbols and their meanings, understanding the historical context, and interpreting the cartoonist's message. These cartoons can feature a range of subjects from political corruption to major events like Herbert Hoover's presidency or the Iran-Contra Affair.
Step-by-step explanation:
Political cartoons serve as a medium to express a cartoonist's opinion on current affairs using illustrations and often include vivid symbols. When analyzing political cartoons, several steps are taken: identifying the objects or people, recognizing symbols and their meanings, and discerning the cartoonist's message about the issue depicted.
For example, symbols such as the donkey and the elephant represent the Democratic and Republican parties, respectively, as popularized by Thomas Nast in the 19th century. In cartoons about historic figures or events, like Herbert Hoover's presidency or the Iran-Contra Affair, exaggeration may be employed to emphasize a point or opinion about the subject's actions or inactions. Additionally, during periods of contention, such as the era of McCarthyism, cartoons might mock the flimsy accusations made by controversial figures.
In instances like the 'Cesspool on the Potomac', cartoons depict the distaste for corruption within politics, portraying politicians and lobbyists as animals engaging in self-serving behavior. This approach provides a satirical perspective on serious issues, engaging the reader and prompting them to think critically about their leaders and social grievances.