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Questions
1. A symbol is something that stands for or suggests something else. Editorial cartoonists often use symbols to represent a person, group or idea. (the lion is a symbol of courage). What does an octopus symbolize in editorial cartoons?
2. Who is the octopus in Gary Varvel’s cartoon?
3. What point is Varvel making in his cartoon?
Scroll down to the bottom of the page for the answers.
Cartoon by Gary Varvel
Answers
1. A symbol is something that stands for or suggests something else. Editorial cartoonists often use symbols to represent a person, group or idea. (the lion is a symbol of courage). What does an octopus symbolize in editorial cartoons?
In cartoons, an octopus is often used to symbolize something that is a threatening, grasping, or strangling force – an octopus’ grasping tentacles are into everything, controlling everything.
2. Who is the octopus in Gary Varvel’s cartoon?
Iran’s Supreme Leader the Ayatollah Khamenei is the octopus in Varvel’s cartoon. The Supreme Leader is the head of state and the highest political and religious authority of the Islamic Republic of Iran (above the president).
3. What point is Varvel making in his cartoon?
The Iranian government/Ayatollah controls various terrorist organizations, which all have the same goal of destroying Israel (and America). This includes Syria, which allowed Iran to support Hamas and Hezbollah’s terrorist activities.
Following the horrific Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, Israel attacked and destroyed Hamas and Hezbollah. Assad’s regime just fell in Syria. Iran’s means of causing damage is being cut off piece by piece.
