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Questions
1. Choose the two types of literary devices cartoonist Gary Varvel uses in this cartoon.
a) parody
b) symbol
c) metaphor
d) anthropomorphism
e) oxymoron
2. What does the donkey symbolize in this cartoon?
3. Do you agree with Mr. Varvel’s assertion? Explain your answer.
Scroll down to the bottom of the page for the answers.
Cartoon by Gary Varvel
Answers
1. The answers are:
b) symbol – A symbol is something that stands for or suggests something else. Editorial cartoonists often use symbols to represent a person, group or idea. (eg. the lion is a symbol of courage) In this cartoon the donkey symbolizes the Democrat party.
d) anthropomorphism – giving human characteristics to non-humans or objects – especially animals. Anthropomorphism aims to make an animal or object behave and appear like they are human beings.
The cartoonist did not use:
a) parody – a humorous or satirical imitation of a serious piece of literature or writing
c) metaphor – a figure of speech that describes something by saying it is something else, comparing two unlike things directly without using “like” or “as.” For example, saying “He is a lion” compares a person’s bravery to a lion’s, but it doesn’t literally mean the person is a lion.
e) oxymoron – two words or phrases used together that have, or seem to have, opposite meanings (such as the phrase “jumbo shrimp” “virtual reality”)
2. The donkey symbolizes the Democratic party.
3. Opinion question. Answers vary.
