Life — November 22, 1917 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The ABC of Kultur" - WWI Satire This page contains three panels satirizing German militarism and the wartime Governor of Palestine during WWI. The cartoons use caricature to mock German "kultur" (culture): - **"D" panel**: Depicts a soldier kicking civilians, mocking German military brutality - **"E" panel**: Shows Germany as a bloated thief stealing from England, with the caption comparing it unfavorably to a pig and robber - **"S" panel**: Illustrates a frightful-looking military figure, emphasizing the need to "appear Frightful" Below, "A Military Genius" satirizes **Lieutenant von Zwiebach**, apparently a real Ottoman official responsible for Palestinian governance. The text mocks his excessive cruelty and incompetence, suggesting he's merely playing at military authority while causing suffering. The satire suggests his brutality reflects poorly on German military values rather than demonstrating genius.