In this lesson, I provide an example of how to deep read images to use as primary sources.  I also expect you to do this same sort of analysis on the Roosevelt speech and the song analysis if you choose to do that.  Fine art paintings and cartoon can be analyzed in the same way, using the principles of symbolism, messaging, and visual storytelling. Please read my full example below so you can see the level of detail and reasoning I expect in your own responses.  Try to do this in your own style.  DO NOT USE AI ON THESE ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENTS, IT WILL LEAD YOU WRONG–it makes up details that are not present.Background Reading: Before you begin, read: John O’Sullivan Declares America’s Manifest Destiny, 1845 – American Yawp ReaderImage Analysis Questions:1. Observation – List at least 10 objects or figures in the image. Artists who create political cartoons (or symbolic paintings like this) include specific details for a reason—nothing is random. Your job is to observe and describe those details carefully.You are not limited to physical objects or people. You should also include visual elements that set the tone or reveal symbolic meaning—such as lighting, color, fabric movement, posture, facial expression, and clothing style. These less tangible details are just as important as the “solid” items like wagons, animals, or buildings.

For example: the color of the sky, the direction the wind is blowing her dress, or the expressions of the retreating figures can tell you just as much about the artist’s message as a train or telegraph wire.

Mythical woman flying through the air (often interpreted as a goddess or spirit of progress) Light sky in the East / dark clouds in the West “School Book” in her hand Telegraph wire trailing behind her as she moves westward Covered wagons and a U.S. Mail wagon traveling west Steam trains moving toward the frontier Every figure and vehicle in the image is moving westward Miners and farmers with oxen and plows Indigenous people depicted in stereotypical Plains-style clothing, retreating into the darkened edge of the image Wild animals, including buffalo and a bear, also fleeing westward into the shadows Log cabin on the frontier Mountain range in the distance City buildings in the background, likely representing a major eastern hub such as St. Louis or Chicago, marking the edge of the settled lands during this period

2. Interpretation – What is the action in the image, and what is the message being conveyed? Use the sentence structure: “The artist’s message is ____________, as evidenced by ____________ in the image.” Then add your personal insight or disagreement if needed.

The artist’s message is that the settlement of the West is going to bring enlightenment and civilization, as evidenced by the goddess of progress flying westward, laying telegraph wire, and carrying a book to bring education and communication to the “dark” places in the image. (notice how i used the exact wording above as part of my answer) While I personally disagree with this message, the artist was clearly a proponent of Manifest Destiny. He used light vs. dark symbolism, the presence of trains, farms, and cities to show that “progress” was moving forward, and the Indigenous peoples and animals fleeing into the shadows as representations of what was being pushed aside.

3. Reflection – Does the image clearly communicate its message? Why or why not? Reflect on how the symbolism works and whether the image still makes sense today.

Yes, I think the picture very clearly shows the national mood and political push at the time. Even though I now view this as deeply problematic—especially the forced removal of Western tribes—it absolutely reflects the era’s mindset. The goddess driving out the “darkness” is meant to show progress and destiny. While I find that harmful now, the image communicates the zeitgeist of the 1840s with strong and effective symbolism.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Carefully Observe the Image

• List at least 10 objects, figures, and visual elements.

• Don’t just note what’s “there”—look at posture, expressions, clothing, lighting, and direction of movement.

Step 2: Analyze the Message

• Ask yourself: what story is the artist telling?

• Use the sentence structure: “The artist’s message is ________, as evidenced by ________ in the image.”

• Include your personal insight, agreeing or disagreeing with the message.

Step 3: Reflect on Effectiveness

• Does the image communicate the intended message clearly?

• Consider symbolism, visual storytelling, and whether it still resonates or makes sense today.

Step 4: Organize Your Response

• Introduction: Identify the image and historical context.

• Body Paragraph 1: Observation with at least 10 details.

• Body Paragraph 2: Interpretation using evidence from the image.

• Body Paragraph 3: Reflection on effectiveness and personal insight.

Step 5: Format and Submit

• Use clear paragraphs and proper grammar.

• Keep your style in your own voice—don’t rely on AI.

Resources for Guidance:

• American Yawp Reader

• Center for Writing Excellence

• Grammarly Grammar Assistance