The Wasp — 1881 — page 176: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page consists primarily of **dictionary-style definitions** rather than political cartoons. The content appears to be "Wasp's Improved Webster"—a satirical dictionary where words are humorously redefined to mock contemporary figures and social conditions. The only illustration is a small figure labeled "Our Curled Darling" (upper left), accompanying a piece about someone who "writes up the Palace Hotel Concert." The definitions target various subjects: politicians ("SHAM"), journalists, social pretenders, and business practices. For example, "SABBATH" mocks San Francisco's irreligious wealthy, while other entries critique hypocrisy among the city's elite. **The satire works through redefinition**: taking standard words and providing cynical, biting alternative meanings that expose corruption, vanity, and moral failure among San Francisco's establishment.