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Two Forces, 1881. Artist: Joseph Swain
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Two Forces, 1881. Artist: Joseph Swain
Two Forces, 1881. Britannia, armed with a large sword labelled The Law, protects Hibernia from a stone-throwing, animalistic Irish anarchist. As is usual in these cartoon, Britannia is depicted as much the stronger, almost manlike, of the two symbols. In contrast, with her flowing hair, Hibernia is girlish and weak. This relates to a speech made by the Liberal Prime Minister, Gladstone, after the passing of the Irish Land Act. He urged the Irish people to use the bill, rather than just test it. He went on to say that if it should then still be necessary to face the final conflict between law and lawlessness, then the resources of civilisation were not yet exhausted. From Punch, or the London Charivari, October 29, 1881
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Media ID 14831749
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Anarchism Anarchist Britannia Heritage Image Partnership Hibernia Ireland Irish John Tenniel Joseph Swain Legislation Protect Protected Protection Sir John Tenniel Strength Strong Swain Tenniel Allegorical Figure Irish Land Act
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The print titled "Two Forces, 1881" captures a powerful and symbolic representation of the political climate in 19th century Ireland. Created by artists Joseph Swain and John Tenniel, this engraving depicts Britannia, personifying the concept of law and order, armed with a large sword labeled "The Law". She stands tall and strong, protecting Hibernia from an Irish anarchist who is depicted as animalistic and stone-throwing. In this satirical cartoon, Britannia is portrayed as almost manlike, emphasizing her strength and authority. On the other hand, Hibernia appears girlish and weak with flowing hair. This stark contrast reflects the prevailing perception that Britain was superior to Ireland both politically and militarily. This image relates to a speech made by Liberal Prime Minister Gladstone after the passing of the Irish Land Act. He urged the Irish people to utilize this legislation rather than merely testing its boundaries. Gladstone suggested that if necessary, they should confront any remaining lawlessness using civilized means before resorting to conflict. As a historical artifact from Punch magazine in October 1881, this print provides insight into the complex relationship between Britain and Ireland during that time period. It highlights themes such as protectionism through weaponry symbolism while also addressing political tensions surrounding legislation like the Irish Land Act. Overall, "Two Forces" serves as a reminder of how art can be used to convey political messages while reflecting societal attitudes towards power dynamics within countries.
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