Life — March 7, 1918 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "A German Peace" - Satirical Play (1918-1919) This is a one-act dramatic satire titled "A German Peace," depicting a confrontation between two female allegorical figures: **Germania** (representing Germany, shown in military regalia on the right) and **Civilization** (shown in classical dress on the left). The scene parodies post-World War I peace negotiations. Civilization demands reparations for destroyed homes, murdered relatives, and looted property. Germania laughs off these demands and refuses to open the door—a metaphor for Germany's reluctance to accept responsibility or make amends. The satire mocks Germany's defiant attitude toward war guilt and the Allied powers' expectations for accountability. Written by Kenneth L. Roberts, this reflects American frustration with German obstinacy during the Versailles Treaty period.