Analyzing "Abandon Ship": A Brexit Political Cartoon
This page introduces a Brexit political cartoon analysis focusing on Ben Garrison's "Abandon Ship" cartoon, published shortly after the UK's 2016 referendum to leave the European Union. The cartoon vividly illustrates the artist's perspective on Brexit and its implications for both the UK and the EU.
Highlight: The cartoon was published on grargraphics.com two days after the Brexit referendum, offering a timely visual commentary on the event.
The cartoon's setting is the ocean, with two ships representing the EU and the UK. The larger EU ship, flying both the EU and Algerian flags, is depicted in turmoil. In contrast, the smaller UK ship, bearing the Union Flag, is shown sailing towards a bright sun, symbolizing a promising future outside the EU.
Vocabulary: Brexiteers - Supporters of the UK's withdrawal from the European Union.
The EU ship faces multiple challenges, including:
- Waves of immigrants crashing against it
- A tornado of economic failure
- A shark of political correctness attacking passengers
- Dark storm clouds overhead
- A "debt anchor" pulling the ship towards a waterfall
These elements collectively portray the EU as a troubled entity facing numerous crises.
Example: The debt anchor pulling the EU ship towards a waterfall symbolizes the financial burdens and economic challenges facing the European Union.
The cartoon depiction of Brexit uses various symbolic elements to convey its message, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of the artist's perspective on the UK's decision to leave the EU.
