The Wasp — October 18, 1879 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Baruch Kowski / Le Juif Polonais This page presents a three-act play adapted from French, featuring a scene of working-class figures gathered around a table in what appears to be a modest inn or tavern. The dialogue concerns a harsh Polish winter, hardship, and survival. The title "Le Juif Polonais" (The Polish Jew) and character names like Michel (an innkeeper) suggest this is a period piece depicting Jewish life in Poland. The satire appears directed at European stereotypes and theatrical representations of Jewish characters and Eastern European poverty rather than contemporary politics. The illustration shows common people in period dress engaged in casual conversation, emphasizing the play's focus on everyday hardship and social conditions rather than high society.