The Wasp — 1879 — page 82: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The illustrated cartoon at top left shows two women in conversation, labeled "GOSSIP." This is a satirical commentary on women's social behavior—specifically their tendency to engage in idle talk and rumor-mongering. The accompanying text supports this theme with various snippets mocking women's behavior and appearance (silk stockings, short ball dresses, etc.), presented as humorous "facts" and observations from newspapers. The satire reflects late-19th-century attitudes portraying women as frivolous, gossipy, and overly concerned with fashion. The cartoon's placement among these snippets reinforces the stereotype that women's conversations lack substance, serving as social criticism typical of The Wasp's satirical approach to gender and society.