Life — January 29, 1920 — page 27: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a medieval street scene with a tower and buildings. A horse and rider appear in the town square—ostensibly illustrating the famous legend of Lady Godiva, who allegedly rode naked through the streets to protest taxes. However, the cartoon's title suggests this is a debunking illustration—showing "the truth" rather than the romanticized legend. The detailed medieval architecture and everyday street life (with what appears to be common townspeople and objects scattered about) implies the cartoon is mocking the legendary version as exaggerated or false. The satire likely comments on how historical legends become embellished over time, or how popular myths obscure actual truth. Without additional context, the specific target of the satire remains unclear, though it appears to be a commentary on historical revisionism or gullibility.