Life — November 11, 1915 — page 7: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Explanation for Modern Readers This page from *Life* magazine contains social commentary on early 20th-century gender and class conventions. **"Fashions in Girls"** critiques women's fashion trends, noting that irresponsible color varieties persist despite occasional somber fashions, and that "stoop-shouldered figures continue the rage"—mocking poor posture as a fashionable affectation. **"The Great Handicap"** presents a philosophical dialogue questioning wealth's value. The Parlor Philosopher argues a good name matters more than riches, while the "Mere Man" counters that wealth actually prevents imprisonment—a cynical joke about the justice system's bias toward the wealthy. **"Heroes"** (bottom) depicts men at a formal dinner, captioned "The Man to Whom a Dinner is Given," satirizing how society honors individuals through ceremonial meals rather than substantive recognition.