The Wasp — 1878 — page 50: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The main cartoon shows two figures in profile labeled "GOSSIP," depicted as women engaged in conversation—a visual metaphor for idle talk and rumor-spreading. The page comprises gossip items and satirical commentary on contemporary issues. Topics include: - A critique of the "Shotgun Policy" in South Carolina politics - Mockery of an undertaker's profession - Commentary on a marriage attempt to "swindle" involving a groom - Social observations about Barbary horses, Boston marriages, and Australian animals The satirical tone targets hypocrisy, questionable business practices, and social absurdities of the era. The "Gossip" framing device suggests these items represent unverified rumors or exaggerated claims circulating in society, which The Wasp presents with ironic commentary for entertainment and social criticism.