The Wasp — 1888 — page 450: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes what it labels "Chicago's New School of Economy." The central figure—a grotesque caricature with exaggerated features—appears to represent capitalist excess or corrupt economic practices. He's depicted as a teacher presenting a lesson on economic principles to an audience of observers shown at the bottom. The visual metaphors are critical: labeled boxes reference "Capital Feeds Upon the Workers' Sweat" and "Limit of Destructive Force," suggesting the cartoon critiques how capitalism exploits labor. The title "Work is Degrading!" indicates the satire targets arguments justifying economic inequality or poor working conditions. The overall message appears to be mocking Chicago's wealthy elite and their justifications for exploitative labor practices during the Gilded Age.