A complete issue · 16 pages · 1879
Puck — August 13, 1879
# Puck Magazine, August 13, 1879 This issue's main cartoon satirizes the "Opening of the Butler Campaign in Massachusetts." The image depicts a grotesque, demonic figure emerging from water, holding a tattered flag—appearing to represent Butler's political campaign as something monstrous or destructive. The header quote "What fools these Mortals be!" (from *A Midsummer Night's Dream*) signals mockery of those supporting Butler's political efforts. General Benjamin Butler was a controversial Union general and Radical Republican politician; this cartoon likely criticizes his Massachusetts campaign as dangerous or ridiculous. The demonic imagery suggests Puck's editors viewed Butler negatively and his campaign as something to be feared or ridiculed rather than taken seriously.
# Puck Magazine Page Analysis This page contains several short editorial commentaries rather than a single cartoon. The main piece, "The Sun and Mayor Cooper," critiques Mayor Cooper and the Police Commissioner, praising their efficiency but ironically noting they've dismissed Commissioner Smith without proper justification. The editors argue this undermines law and due process—even efficient government must follow legal procedures. A secondary section discusses the Butler Campaign in Massachusetts, suggesting Dennis Kearney (likely the "Workingmen's Party" candidate) is making inflammatory speeches to gain attention before the formal campaign launch. Brief notes satirize various local issues: watering-places, Philadelphia papers, Delaware farmers, and a Presbyterian clergyman's sermon. The page is primarily text-based commentary rather than illustrated political satire.
# Puck Magazine Page 355 Analysis This page contains three distinct sections: 1. **"Fitznoodle in America" (top left)**: A serialized story about a snobbish English yacht-club visitor observing American social customs and romance. 2. **"What Didn't Happen Last Week" (center)**: A satirical column listing fictional events that *didn't* occur—a comedic format mocking contemporary scandals, labor disputes, and political figures. It references various failed "strikes" and scandals involving named individuals, suggesting actual controversies readers would recognize. 3. **"Quite an Idea" (bottom right)**: A cartoon with two figures in period dress, accompanying text about ventilated clothing as a humorous concept. 4. **"Has Capital Any Rights?" (right column)**: A serious political essay debating labor and capital relations, arguing both deserve respect but criticizing exploitative capitalist practices. The page blends humor with earnest social commentary typical of Puck's satirical approach.
