Puck — December 10, 1879 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon critiques religious hypocrisy, likely targeting specific Protestant denominations. The top panel shows clergy crowded into a tub labeled "Presbyterian Synod," with text suggesting they're spiritually adrift—"What fools these Mortals be!" The main cartoon depicts "Brother Talmage" (likely referring to Thomas De Witt Talmage, a prominent Brooklyn preacher) cutting himself loose from a boat labeled "Sycants Tub." Religious figures in the background watch from their crowded vessel. The caption states he "cuts himself adrift, and—everybody is satisfied." The satire suggests Talmage's departure from his religious community was welcomed relief, mocking both his personal conduct and institutional church politics of the era.