The Sunday Question
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The Sunday Question
Cartoon asking whether the working class should spend Sunday in the public house, or being educated in a museum or art gallery
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4412872
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10226356
1869 Alcohol C Ulture Crowds Educated Gallery Groups Question Spend Sunday Temperance
EDITORS COMMENTS
The Sunday Question, 1869: A Thought-Provoking Cartoon of the Working Class Dilemma This print, titled "The Sunday Question," dates back to 1869 and offers a fascinating glimpse into the social debates and choices of the working class during that era. The cartoon, created as a commentary on the use of leisure time, presents a thought-provoking question: should the working class spend their Sundays in the public house, or in a museum or art gallery? The image showcases a large crowd of working-class individuals gathered around a table in a pub, with one man holding up a sign that reads "Public House," while another group gathers around a museum entrance, with a sign that reads "Museum or Art Gallery." The contrast between the two groups highlights the stark difference in the perceived value and benefits of each option. The pub scene is filled with lively, boisterous energy, as men drink and socialize, while the museum group appears more somber and reflective. The historical significance of this cartoon lies in the larger societal context of the temperance movement, which aimed to reduce the consumption of alcohol and promote the importance of education and culture. The cartoonist masterfully employs symbolism and visual storytelling to engage the viewer and provoke thought. The use of April as the backdrop adds a touch of seasonality, further emphasizing the idea of new beginnings and the potential for growth through education and cultural enrichment. In conclusion, "The Sunday Question" is a captivating and thought-provoking piece of historical art that offers a unique perspective on the social debates and choices of the working class during the late 19th century. Its enduring relevance and the ongoing importance of balancing leisure, education, and culture make it a fascinating addition to any collection.
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