The Wasp — March 13, 1880 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page from *The Wasp* is primarily **text rather than cartoon content**—it's a historical essay titled "Phases of History: Not Generally given in Detail," written by Salmi Morse for the magazine. The piece discusses various historical observations and anecdotes, including references to palace architecture, artistic patronage, and social customs. The page includes some satirical commentary embedded in the narrative—for example, discussions of courtly excess and absurd social conventions—but lacks the visual political cartoons typical of *The Wasp*'s satirical approach. The content appears focused on cultural and historical critique rather than immediate political targets. Without accompanying illustrations, the satire operates through written wit alone.