Political Cartoon: Iraq
Title: “Iraq”
Artist: Daryl Cagle
Date of Publication: May 14, 2008
Link: http://www.cagle.com/news/Iraq5Years/6.asp
What issue, event or idea does the cartoon address?
The issue that is being addressed in this cartoon is clearly the War in Iraq. Both Uncle Sam and President Bush are depicted, as well as everyday civilians and an American soldier. It is addressing the fact that we have been at War with and occupying Iraq for five years now.
What key people or groups is part of the cartoon’s message?
As I stated before, President Bush, Uncle Sam, everyday civilians, and an American soldier are all depicted. All of these figures represent the different groups in America, both military, political, and general citizens. This variety of people is used to show that the war is affecting everyone, and every group, not just one in particular.
Choose one technique (symbolism, exaggeration, labeling, humor/irony, or stereotype) and briefly explain how the artist used it in the cartoon.
I think symbolism plays a major role in this cartoon. The fact that the maze spells out the word “Iraq” states that the situation in Iraq is just how it is depicted; a confusing maze with no exit. President Bush as well as Uncle Sam, the civilians, and the solider have no clue where to go next, some of them are depicted at dead ends in the maze, while the others are just confused and have no idea where to turn to next.
What is the message of the cartoon? What do you think is the cartoonist’s opinion or point of view on this issue?
I believe that the cartoonist is trying to emphasize that currently, the war in Iraq is just a mess, after five years, we are still aimlessly wandering around with no ideas of how to improve things, or find an end in sight. I think by making Iraq a maze with no clear exit is also addressing the issue that after five years, we still have not come up with an exit strategy. His opinion is probably ridiculing Bush and his approach on the War in Iraq.
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