The Wasp — 1881 — page 32: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains primarily **dictionary-style definitions** of words beginning with "P" (Pride, Priest, Primary, etc.) — essentially satirical definitions mocking contemporary institutions and behaviors. These are presented as "Wasp's Improved Webster" in ten-cent doses, using humor to criticize social hypocrisy. The **zodiac illustration** shows Aries (the Ram), a standard astrological reference. The main content is **"Wasp's Book of Wisdom"** — numbered observations offering social commentary on topics like deception, champagne, justice, and romance. These are witty aphorisms meant to expose society's contradictions. The "Easy Exercises" section appears to be a language learning feature. Overall, this is a **satirical reference work** targeting pomposity and pretension in American society, rather than topical political cartooning.