Analogy: An analogy is a comparison between two unlike things that share some
characteristics. By comparing a complex issue or situation with a more familiar one,
cartoonists can help their readers see it in a different light. After you’ve studied a cartoon for
a while, try to decide what the cartoon’s main analogy is. What two situations does the
cartoon compare? Once you understand the main analogy, decide if this comparison makes
the cartoonist’s point more clearly to you.
Irony: Irony is the difference between the ways things are and the way things should
be, or the way things are expected to be. Cartoonists often use irony to express their opinion
on an issue. When you look at a cartoon, see if you can find any irony in the situation the
cartoon depicts. If you can, think about what point the irony might be intended to emphasize.
Does the irony help the cartoonist express his or her opinion more effectively?
Once you learn to spot these techniques, you’ll be able to see the cartoonist’s point
more clearly. You should also be aware of any political slant, or bias, that he or she might
have. When you see the political cartoons, use this guide to identify the persuasive
techniques used in political cartoons.
Look at the examples below how to identify the persuasive techniques.
Labeling: This cartoonist uses a label to make it especially clear that the door is a symbol of
school segregation.