Life — December 7, 1916 — page 32: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a satirical cartoon showing a medieval/fantasy scene titled "In Ye Goode Olde Days." The illustration depicts what appears to be Sir Galahad (a legendary knight) surrounded by fantastical creatures in a forest setting, apparently explaining his late arrival home to his wife. The joke is a humorous contrast: the caption suggests Sir Galahad is using elaborate medieval excuses ("ye excuse") for coming home late—implying he's been on some knightly adventure fighting monsters or magical beings. The satire targets husbands of the era (or any era) who fabricate elaborate stories to explain their tardiness to their spouses, rather than admitting simpler truths. It's a timeless joke about marital deception dressed in fanciful medieval language and imagery.