Life — February 2, 1922 — page 12: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis: "In Defense of Chorus Girls" (Life Magazine) This page defends chorus girls against contemporary social criticism. The main article argues that chorus work requires intense discipline, physical conditioning, and moral character—countering the era's perception of chorus girls as frivolous, immoral women who frequent wealthy men's parties. The cartoon "He Wasn't an Editor's Cousin" satirizes nepotism in publishing, suggesting merit matters more than connections. Below, "Moral: Mind Mamma!" depicts three domestic scenes of mothers managing children—humorous reminders of parental responsibility. The page reflects early 20th-century attitudes toward theatrical performers, who faced social stigma despite their genuine professional demands. The defense suggests chorus girls were stereotyped and underestimated by respectable society.