Life — May 22, 1890 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a satirical political cartoon from *Life* magazine (page 295) depicting Henrik Ibsen, the Norwegian playwright, as a towering bust monument. The inscription reads "IBSEN" on the pedestal. The satire appears to mock Ibsen's cultural elevation and influence. Below the monument, chaotic figures—labeled "BROWNING" (likely referring to Robert Browning or his literary circle)—are depicted in disarray among scattered books and debris, suggesting intellectual chaos or the tumultuous nature of literary movements. A woman figure stands to the right, possibly representing the arts or literature personified. The caption "NEXT! LATEST FROM OUR BOSTON CORRESPONDENT" suggests this is commentary on Boston's literary tastes and fashions—implying that Ibsen worship represents the latest pretentious trend among American intellectuals, worthy of ridicule.