The Wasp — May 22, 1880 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Political Cartoon Analysis: "The Pleasures of Hope—Coming Events Cast Their Shadows Before" This May 22, 1880 *Wasp* cartoon uses the phrase "coming events cast their shadows before" (a common Victorian saying about premonition) to satirize political anticipation. The left panel shows a figure riding a donkey—likely representing a Democratic politician or the Democratic Party itself (the donkey being the Democratic symbol). The right panel depicts three caricatured figures near the Capitol building, appearing to be Republicans actively scheming or preparing political moves. The satire suggests that Democrats, represented by the donkey-rider, are anxiously watching Republican machinations unfold. The cartoon mocks the political tension and maneuvering of the 1880 election season, with Republicans portrayed as actively plotting while Democrats merely observe their shadows.