GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsReading ComprehensionMedium
A student is analyzing a series of political cartoons from a specific historical period. One cartoon depicts a politician with an oversized wallet and a tiny brain, standing next to a common citizen struggling with heavy taxes. Another cartoon shows a different politician as a puppet controlled by a wealthy industrialist.
- ATo satirize and criticize political corruption and inequality.
- BTo endorse the politicians' policies and leadership.
- CTo provide a balanced view of economic challenges.
- DTo objectively report on political events of the era.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. To satirize and criticize political corruption and inequality.
Political cartoons often use exaggeration and caricature (like an oversized wallet for greed or a politician as a puppet) to mock, criticize, and draw attention to perceived flaws, corruption, or injustices in society or politics.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The exaggerated negative portrayals suggest the opposite of endorsement.
- C. The depiction is clearly critical and one-sided, not balanced.
- D. Cartoons are inherently subjective and opinionated, not objective reports.
Author's Purpose: Satirize/Criticize
To use humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.
- Often uses caricature, parody, and sarcasm.
- Aims to provoke thought and encourage change.
- Can be found in political cartoons, essays, and literature.
Memory trick: P.I.E.S. helps you see the writer's goal.