Plan of Investigation

This investigation evaluates the degree to which David Low's cartoons accurately reflected public opinion in Britain in the years surrounding World War II. To assess the extent to which Low’s illustrations were an accurate depiction of the public’s views, the investigation focuses on the mindset of the citizens of Britain, Low’s interpretation of societal beliefs, and the reaction to his straightforward expressions. The opposing mindsets present in Britain are considered in the investigation, along with David Low’s background. Reactions to Low’s work before this time period is not assessed, and focuses particularly to the effects of his work, during and directly after World War II.

         The two sources selected to evaluate, Biography: David Low, published by the British Cartoon Archive, and assorted dairy entries, including The Wartime Years-Before I enlisted into the Army 1939-1943, by John Hamilton, are evaluated for their origins, purposes, values, and limitations.