Life — September 9, 1909 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Chivalry Is Not Dead" The main cartoon depicts a crowded streetcar or trolley where a man in a bowler hat holds a large basket, while a woman stands nearby. The caption quotes "Madam, please take my seat," suggesting old-fashioned gentlemanly behavior. The satire appears to mock the contradiction between outdated courtesies and modern realities. The accompanying text discusses Jewish marriage customs and business practices regarding intermarriage, framed as a pragmatic "business proposition." The cartoon likely critiques how superficial gestures of chivalry persist while deeper social prejudices remain intact—men may offer seats on streetcars but harbor discriminatory attitudes about interfaith marriage. The title's irony suggests chivalry is selectively applied based on social convenience rather than genuine principle.