The Wasp — 1881 — page 353: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The page features a woodcut illustration labeled "PRATTLE" showing a grotesque figure—likely a caricatured Mormon leader—depicted as a demonic or bestial creature with exaggerated features. The accompanying text is a satirical essay attacking Mormonism and its persecuted history. The author argues that accusations against Mormons parallel historical persecution of other groups (Waldenses, Quakers, etc.), but defends examining Mormon conduct on moral grounds rather than religious conviction. The piece critiques both Mormon-haters for their "fair-mindedness" and the Mormons themselves for moral failings. It references specific figures like Lord Beaconsfield and discusses Mormon social practices with evident hostility. The satire positions itself as reasoned criticism rather than religious bigotry, though the dehumanizing caricature suggests otherwise.