Life, 1898-03-24 · page 7 of 20
Life — March 24, 1898 — page 7: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# "Studies in Demonology" Analysis This page features a theatrical satire about a play's reception. The headline "Studies in Demonology" frames a dialogue between a Theatrical Manager and the Devil, discussing whether the play will succeed. The cartoon below depicts a scene in what appears to be a theater office or backstage area. A well-dressed man (the Manager) sits conversing with a demonic figure, while a third character (possibly representing the public) observes from the right. The satire's punchline—"It's the public that makes the mistake"—suggests the piece mocks how theatrical success depends on audience reception rather than artistic merit. The Devil's involvement implies the play may be morally questionable yet commercially viable. This reflects early 20th-century concerns about public taste and commercialism in theater.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
The Net of Law. ILE net of law is spread so wide, o sinner hide. tine ~ from its sweep mi Its meshes are so strong AB They wrol and take in every child of © wondrous web of mystery! Big fish alone can creep through thee! das, deftecy Roche, 7 OU cangetout of marria justas much happiness as you put into it, §© TLL do it, if it breaks said the The- “Its a met" atrical Ma er. good play I written, full of interest and charm, and having some direct relation with life. PML putit in rehearsal at once, and give the drama a chance. “It's the public that makes the mistake.” Hanged if Tdon't!” Just then the Devil appeared, “Don't you think you're makea mistake “T never he questioned, suavely make a mistake,” replicd the Manager, with an airof omnipotence. “It's the public that makes the mistak “True,” said the Devil; ‘ but looking