The Wasp — 1895 — page 532: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical page from *The Wasp* magazine contains several social humor pieces targeting late-19th/early-20th century society: **"Perils of Innovation"** presents Shelby Martin, described as "young and flirtatious," who exploited divorce law loopholes—a contemporary social scandal involving a woman seeking marriage annulment to dodge legal consequences. **"The New Woman Suited Him"** satirizes debates about "New Women" (emerging feminists) through dialogue mocking both progressive ideals and traditional attitudes. **"Feminine Criticism"** jokes about superficial female judgment of appearance over substance. **"They Love Each Other"** depicts two fashionably-dressed women in an affectionate pose. Additional pieces use typical comic conventions (mistaken identity, class humor) to mock contemporary manners and social pretension. The magazine targets Oakland society's aspirations and contradictions through gentle, urbane satire.