The Wasp — 1879 — page 655: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily **text, not a cartoon**—it's a letter to the editor and accompanying editorial response about "The Passion Play," a dramatic production that apparently sparked religious controversy in San Francisco. The letter writer (Salmi Morse) defends his play against accusations that it offends Christians by depicting sacred subjects. The editorial response argues the play *is* offensive because it glorifies Lord's name and instructs viewers to break religious rules. **Key context for modern readers:** This reflects late-19th-century tensions over theatrical depictions of Christian subject matter. The debate hinges on whether artistic freedom justifies religious representation, and whether public performances should respect religious sensibilities—issues that resonate today. No identifiable caricatures appear on this page.