The Wasp — March 6, 1880 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "The Dunce: A Scene from the 'Little Duke'" This satirical illustration depicts a classroom scene where several figures in period dress hold papers, apparently representing a legislative or political assembly rather than an actual school. The caption references "The Little Duke," likely a theatrical production or political allegory. The scene appears to mock political incompetence or foolishness among elected officials or legislators. The figure suspended above (labeled "Braunhau") and the dialogue snippets about removing an "intruder" suggest satirical commentary on parliamentary procedure disruptions or the expulsion of a member. The "dunce" title implies the seated figures are being portrayed as intellectually inferior or incompetent. Without clearer identification of specific 1880 political events or figures, the exact targets remain unclear, though this appears to critique San Francisco's local political leadership as foolish or inept.