Puck — November 26, 1879 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Puck cover features a political cartoon titled "He tells Me to be Thankful! What Cheek!" The image shows a figure (likely representing a working person or laborer) being confronted by what appear to be wealthy or powerful men emerging from a window or doorway. The shadowy figure holds what looks like a tool or implement, while the men inside appear to be mocking or taunting him. The satire critiques class tensions and labor conditions of the Gilded Age. The "fools these Mortals be!" header (quoting Shakespeare) suggests mockery of ordinary people being told to be grateful despite harsh circumstances. The cartoon likely attacks wealthy industrialists or politicians who dismiss workers' grievances while maintaining comfortable positions themselves—a common Puck theme during this economically turbulent period.