Life — November 29, 1917 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Explanation of Life Magazine Page 865 **Top Cartoon:** A satirical depiction of Russian government officials as demons stewing in a cauldron of "fiery alcohol." The caption names three Russian beverages—absinthe, vodka, and John Barleycorn (whiskey)—satirizing Russian drinking culture and corruption. The demonic figures represent low-spirited government officials consumed by vice. **Bottom Section:** "Make-up of the Average Russian" presents a numbered list of negative traits (conceit, whiskers, childishness, hot air, superstition, etc., totaling 100) meant as satirical character analysis. The accompanying cartoon shows Russian peasants with livestock, captioned "They Were All Good Judges of Clothing in Adam's Day," mocking Russian backwardness and primitiveness. **Context:** This reflects early 20th-century American stereotypes portraying Russia as corrupt, uncivilized, and alcoholic.