Assignment Instructions

Purpose

To analyze how visual culture functioned as political persuasion during World War II and to evaluate how Dr. Seusss wartime ideology reappeared in his postwar childrens literature. Students will apply historical thinking skills by interpreting primary sources, identifying propaganda techniques, and constructing an evidence based argument that connects past to present.

Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  • Analyze a WWII era primary source using historical context
  • Identify propaganda techniques and rhetorical strategies
  • Compare wartime political messaging to postwar childrens literature
  • Connect historical themes to contemporary issues using evidence
  • Communicate analysis through multimedia storytelling
  • BACKGROUND

    Dr. Seuss is the beloved author of more than 50 childrens books. But many students do not know that he drew over 400 political cartoons during WWII. These cartoons tackled such subjects as racism and discrimination, the dangers of isolationism, fascism, and other political issues, and the vital work of the

    war effort at home.

    Students will analyze WWII-era Dr. Seuss cartoons, gaining a greater understanding of the use of symbolism, caricature, stereotyping, analogy, juxtaposition, irony, and humor, as well as a deeper appreciation and perspective of issues confronting the U.S. Home Front. You will only pick one cartoon to submit.

    Students can visit and see the full collection of over 400 cartoons written for the PM Newspaper.

    WRITE MY PAPER


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