Life — August 2, 1883 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a political cartoon titled "IS THIS A TIME FOR SLEEP?" The image shows an elephant (the Republican Party symbol) apparently dozing or resting, while being confronted by what appears to be a donkey (the Democratic Party symbol) in an aggressive or confrontational posture. The cartoon critiques Republican complacency during a period of Democratic political activity or challenge. The elephant's sleep suggests the Republicans are inactive or unaware of threats, while the donkey's aggressive stance indicates the Democrats are actively pressing their agenda. Without a visible date, the specific historical context remains unclear, but the cartoon appears to satirize Republican political passivity during a time when the situation demanded active engagement or response.