Theodore Roosevelt’s visit of 1910 to the UK in Punch magazine cartoons

Abstract

This article aims to trace Roosevelt’s visit to the UK in 1910 and its representation in Punch magazine; to analyze the features of Roosevelt’s iconology in cartoons and the reception of his figure through the prism of visual satire. The research methodology. The analysis of cartoons as specific visual texts was based on E. Panofsky’s iconological scheme. The interpretation involved reading out their plot, composition, stylistic, and symbolic content, as well as their creation’s political and cultural context. The scientific novelty. The study elucidates the peculiarities of the representation of the former president’s activities in the media and the possibilities of satirical publications to shape the historical narrative of T. Roosevelt. Considering the genre specificity, the analysis of the Punch’s materials allowed us to track the British public’s perception of Roosevelt, which was unrestricted by the formalities and rules inherent in the official press and serious analytical editions. Conclusion. Punch magazine closely followed Roosevelt’s visit to Great Britain. Good interstate relations with the United States and attention to Roosevelt’s opinion as to British rule in Africa encouraged its interest. The Punch cartoonists adopted stereotypical American models of Roosevelt’s representation formed in the 19th century (courage, determination, masculinity, «rough rider» other). The image of Roosevelt as a fearless African hunter has been added to this collection. The positive image of T. Roosevelt in Punch cartoons indicates a high appreciation of him as a statesman and a person. The evaluative effect was achieved by comparing Roosevelt to President Taft; assessments did not favour the last. All of the magazine’s ironic attacks on Roosevelt were benevolent. Even in cartoons dedicated to T. Roosevelt, Punch highlighted the shortcomings of the British social system, which could refer readers to Roosevelt’s reformist activities in US domestic policy.