Realism and naïveté of geography represented in cartoons of warfare
ISBN 978-85-88783-11-9
Authors
1Moore, A.; 2Cartwright, W.; 3Hulbe, C.
1School of Surveying, University of Otago, New Zealand Email: tony.moore@otago.ac.nz
2School of Mathematical and Geospatial Sciences, RMIT University
3School of Surveying, University of Otago, New Zealand
Abstract
Cartoons of warfare are popular artistic forms that in many instances include representations of geography. These representations comprise maps, graphics and text. The representational methods employed generate depictions of geography ranging from naïve to the more formal. Previous research has identified a number of approaches for eliciting information about geographies of warfare – from the ‘official’ viewpoint to the personal one. That work identified the rich nature of portrayals of geography in cartoons and the interrelationships between categories of geographic evidence and the cartoon’s intent, be it propaganda, personal insights or satirical reaction. To best consider the power of cartoons for depicting these geographies, it is important to understand the degree of realism and naïveté contained in the cartoon. Here we report on a qualitative assessment of the geographical content of cartoons of warfare, with a focus on the Gallipoli campaign of 1915.