The Wasp — May 22, 1880 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "A Night Ma(y)o re" This is a satirical cartoon from *The Wasp* depicting what appears to be a nighttime political or social gathering. The title puns on "nightmare" and "Mayo," likely referencing Mayo (mayonnaise) or a political figure with that name. The upper section shows men in formal dress suspended or hanging from a rope/beam structure—suggesting they're in precarious political positions or about to face consequences. The lower section depicts a chaotic carnival or circus scene with a carriage, demons or devils, and disorderly figures, symbolizing societal chaos or moral corruption. The overall composition suggests this mocks powerful political figures being brought down to the level of common disorder and degradation, typical of *The Wasp's* irreverent satirical approach to authority and governance.