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WW1 recruitment poster, Which [hat] Ought You to Wear?
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WW1 recruitment poster, Which [hat] Ought You to Wear?
WW1 recruitment poster, Which [hat] Ought You to Wear? Date: circa 1915
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Media ID 14265838
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Onslow Auctions Limited
Choice Civilian Influence Join Persuasion Pressure Psychological Recruiting Recruitment Trilby Wear
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Which Hat Ought You to Wear?
EDITORS COMMENTS
, a compelling and thought-provoking WWI recruitment poster from circa 1915, presents a striking contrast between the civilian and military worlds, skillfully employing psychological pressure to influence potential recruits. The image features a well-dressed man in a trilby hat, gazing intently at a mirror reflection of himself wearing a military uniform and a peaked cap. The caption beneath the mirror reads, "Which hat will it be? The civilian or the soldier?" The design, a quintessential example of English graphic art from the 1910s, effectively captures the essence of the era's recruitment campaigns. The poster's composition, with its clever use of symmetry and the man's contemplative expression, creates a sense of deliberation and choice. The viewer is left questioning their own decision-making process and considering the weight of their personal responsibility in the face of war. The psychological pressure exerted by the poster is further emphasized by the contrasting colors and textures. The civilian attire, with its rich, earthy tones and the soft, textured fabric of the trilby, evokes a sense of comfort and familiarity. In contrast, the military uniform, with its sharp lines, crisp uniformity, and the stark, monochromatic palette, represents the discipline and duty required of a soldier. The poster's influence on recruitment during WWI was significant, as it effectively tapped into the psychological motivations of potential recruits and presented them with a clear choice. The image of the man in the mirror, contemplating his decision, served as a powerful reminder that the choice to join the military was not only a personal one but also a collective responsibility. The poster's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of introspection and to remind us of the profound impact of individual decisions during times of war.
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