Cartoon, Britannia Mourns
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Cartoon, Britannia Mourns
Cartoon, Britannia Mourns -- Henry Irving, legendary actor-manager, sets off on his tour to America.
1883
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Media ID 14401081
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1883 Allegorical Allegory Britannia Bryan Crying Departure Entracte Handkerchief Howling Irving Leaving Legendary Legs Lion Manager Shield Symbol Symbolic Trident
EDITORS COMMENTS
Britannia Mourns: A Victorian Allegory of Henry Irving's Departure to America In this evocative and symbolic cartoon, titled "Britannia Mourns," published in October 1883 by the satirical magazine, Bryan, the legendary actor-manager Sir Henry Irving is depicted as the grieving figure of Britannia, bidding farewell to his homeland as he embarks on a tour to America. The allegorical image shows Britannia, the female personification of Britain, with her iconic trident, helmet, and shield, standing on the shore, her legs spread wide, as if to keep the British Isles together. She wears a flowing robe and a coronet, symbolizing her royalty and sovereignty. Her face is etched with sorrow, and she clutches a handkerchief to her eyes, as she watches Henry Irving's ship sailing away on the horizon. The sea around her is turbulent, with waves crashing against the shore, reflecting the emotional turmoil of the moment. Henry Irving, dressed in formal attire, is shown on the deck of the ship, waving goodbye to the crowd on the shore. A lion, a symbol of Britain, is seen howling in the background, adding to the emotional intensity of the scene. The image captures the sense of loss and nostalgia that accompanied Irving's departure, as he left behind his beloved audience and his native land to explore new opportunities in America. The cartoon is a poignant reminder of the profound impact that Irving had on Victorian audiences and the deep attachment they felt towards him. It also reflects the cultural significance of theatre during the era and the sense of community it fostered, as well as the bittersweet nature of artistic ambition and the sacrifices it often demands.
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