The Wasp — 1879 — page 480: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features a drama review/critique rather than a political cartoon. The article discusses a theatrical production titled "The Soul of an Actress" and critiques the performance and conduct of actors, particularly Mr. Locke and Mr. Sothern. The satire targets theatrical pretension and vanity. The reviewer mocks actors who display "inherent pride" and "inordinate self-esteem," arguing that art worship shouldn't excuse arrogant behavior toward servants and staff. The piece attacks the gap between actors' public personas and their private conduct—they're praised on stage yet behave poorly offstage. The bottom section includes unrelated notices about Irish immigration concerns and Congressional appropriations, typical of The Wasp's satirical magazine format mixing entertainment criticism with social commentary.