1870 / COX & BOX / PUNCH
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1870 / COX & BOX / PUNCH
William Cox and Benjamin Box Satire on Gladstone and Disraeli. The reference is to an operetta by Burnand and Sullivan, based on a farce
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Media ID 620371
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10073085
Based Benjamin Burnand D Israeli Farce Gladstone Operetta Punch Reference Satire Sullivan
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from 1870, titled "Cox & Box: A Satire on Gladstone and Disraeli," is a visual commentary on the political climate of Britain during that time. The image is a reference to the popular operetta of the same name by the renowned team of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan, which was based on the farce "The Cox and Box" by George Dance and Frederick Reynolds. The operetta, first performed in 1866, was a comedic take on the themes of deception, misunderstanding, and the absurdities of urban life. However, in this political satire, the characters of William Cox and Benjamin Box take on new meaning as they represent the two major political figures of the era: Prime Minister William E. Gladstone and Opposition Leader Benjamin Disraeli. Gladstone, a Liberal, is depicted as the hapless Cox, who is tricked into believing that his wife has left him for another man. Disraeli, the Conservative, is shown as the cunning Box, who takes advantage of the situation to move in and claim Cox's home. The print cleverly uses the operetta's characters and plot to make a humorous yet insightful commentary on the political rivalry between these two influential figures. The print's historical significance lies in its ability to capture the public's fascination with the personalities and events of the time. The satire reflects the political tensions and social issues that were shaping Britain during the late Victorian era. The use of cartoons and visual commentary was a common way for the public to engage with and understand the complexities of the political landscape. This print is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique perspective on the political discourse of 19th-century Britain.
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