The Wasp — February 28, 1880 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "Phases of History" Page from The Wasp This page continues a serialized story titled "Phases of History: Not Generally Given in Detail" by Salmi Morse. The text is a satirical narrative featuring a Polish Count character wearing an "insulating blue coat with violent gilt buttons." The illustrations show a comedic encounter between this aristocratic Count and a working-class "little man of black goggles, with red hair." The satire appears to mock class pretension and social awkwardness—the Count's ornate appearance and pompous speech contrast sharply with the practical, direct manner of the common man. The dialogue and situation suggest commentary on European aristocratic pretension versus American democratic plainspokenness, a common theme in 19th-century American satire. The exact historical references remain unclear without additional context.