The Wasp — 1880 — page 188: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page mixes editorial commentary with dictionary-style definitions illustrated by small cartoons. The left column discusses San Francisco's economic stagnation and political corruption, advocating for Eastern businessmen to invest locally. The right side presents "Wasp's Improved Webster"—humorous definitions of terms like "Infernal," "Ingratitude," and "Inquisition," each paired with satirical illustrations. For example, "Infernal" shows a nightshirted man and woman, likely mocking domestic disputes or marital discord common to satirical commentary of the era. The definitions mock contemporary social vices and human failings through crude woodcut illustrations. This format allowed *The Wasp* to deliver biting political and social criticism wrapped in entertainment, making serious critiques of corruption and mismanagement accessible to readers through humor and visual wit.