Home > Popular Themes > Suffragettes
The Vulgarity of Voluntarism 1914
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The Vulgarity of Voluntarism 1914
An illustration of the evil effects of the vulgarity of voluntarism referred to by our contributor. Lord Kitchener is represented by a German cartoon as compelled to recruit Suffragettes in place of the reluctant male
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23424564
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Enlistment Fight Join Kitchener Recruit Recruiting Satire Suffragettes Voluntary
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> Popular Themes
> Suffragettes
The Vulgarity of Voluntarism
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful and thought-provoking political cartoon from 1914, depicting the harsh realities of the volunteer army enlistment drive during the early stages of World War I. The image, available on Mary Evans Prints Online, satirically critiques the notion of voluntarism and the unexpected consequences it brought about, particularly for women. At the center of the illustration, Lord Kitchener, the British Secretary of State for War, is shown in a German caricature, wearing a Prussian helmet and holding a whip, as he compels a group of Suffragettes to join the army in place of reluctant men. The Suffragettes, dressed in their iconic purple, white, and green colors, are portrayed as unwilling participants, with some looking hesitant and others protesting. The title "The Vulgarity of Voluntarism" refers to the crass and coercive nature of the volunteer army enlistment campaign, which disregarded the social norms and expectations of the time. The cartoon highlights the irony of women, who had been fighting for their rights to vote and participate in public life, being forced into the military instead of men. This image serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and contradictions of the war effort, as well as the societal pressures and expectations that influenced people's choices during this tumultuous period in history. The satirical nature of the cartoon adds a layer of commentary on the absurdity of the situation and the unintended consequences of voluntary enlistment. Overall, "The Vulgarity of Voluntarism" is an essential piece of historical art that sheds light on the complexities of the First World War and the role of women in it.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
