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Horrors of the Irish Union: Botheration of Poor Pat, or A Whisper across the Channel
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Horrors of the Irish Union: Botheration of Poor Pat, or A Whisper across the Channel
NCO191290 Horrors of the Irish Union: Botheration of Poor Pat, or A Whisper across the Channel, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1798 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: the Act of Union proposed by Prime Minister William Pitt (1759-1806) would unite Ireland with Great Britain; Britannia offering gold and money; stepping on serpent of discord; Charles James Fox (1749-1806) and supporters hiding in bushes; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 22340044
© Bridgeman Images
Barefoot Destitute Freedom Impoverished Lance Neckerchief Opposition Political Satire Radical Whig Rags Security Sovereignty Speech Bubble Union Jack Warning Whispering Autonomy Interfering Serpent Snakes
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The captivating print titled "Horrors of the Irish Union: Botheration of Poor Pat, or A Whisper across the Channel" by James Gillray is a powerful political satire that delves into the consequences of the proposed Act of Union between Ireland and Great Britain. Published in 1798, this hand-coloured etching showcases Gillray's exceptional talent for capturing complex themes through vivid imagery. In this thought-provoking artwork, Britannia stands tall, offering gold and money to entice poor Pat, symbolizing Ireland. However, she treads upon a serpent of discord as Charles James Fox and his supporters hide in bushes nearby. The cartoon highlights the fear among those who opposed British control over Ireland's sovereignty. Gillray masterfully employs various symbols throughout the composition to convey his message. The destitute peasant depicted barefoot and clad in rags represents impoverished Ireland being taken advantage of by its more powerful neighbor. The menacing snakes lurking in the background further emphasize the treacherous nature of this union. Through this satirical piece, Gillray warns against surrendering autonomy and freedom for economic security. He criticizes not only British interference but also highlights issues such as no Catholic emancipation and abolition of Dublin Parliament. This print serves as a reminder that political decisions can have far-reaching consequences on ordinary people's lives. It continues to be an important historical artifact shedding light on one chapter in Ireland's struggle for independence.
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