Judge — April 14, 1923 — page 6: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This satirical cartoon illustrates the progression of romantic/courtship behavior through four college years, attributed to John Held, Jr. (a famous Judge cartoonist of the 1920s-30s). The progression shows: - **Freshman**: Nervous, formal interaction between a male and female student - **Sophomore**: More energetic, physical pursuit - **Junior**: Casual handholding, relaxed familiarity - **Senior**: Intimate embrace, suggesting commitment or engagement The subtitle "It's awfully hard to stick to it" sardonically comments on the difficulty of maintaining romantic relationships or commitment. The cartoon satirizes how college courtship evolves from awkward formality to physical intimacy, while questioning the sustainability of such relationships. It reflects Jazz Age attitudes toward dating and changing social norms among young adults.