Page 15 CounterFactuals Page 17 CounterFactuals

Esther M. Zimmer Lederberg
Page 16 CounterFactuals
Counter Factuals in Poetry: "Bob Thin" (Chartist)

The use of visuals in the epic poem "Bob Thin, or The Poorhouse Fugitive" is Chartist propaganda. These visuals make use of counter-factuals, as is seen in the last two images. The first four images intend to show how both the ecclesiastic and governmental forces that are in existence combine together against the interests of the poor working man.

Click to see sample #1 Illuminated "D", a devil bending a human being like a bow and arrow
Click to see sample #2 Illuminated "I" and "W"; the "W" shows the marriage of church and state
Click to see sample #3 Illuminated "G" is of Queen Victoria in an opulent bonnet
Click to see sample #4 Illuminated "W" and "R"; the "R" is a wealthy Member of Parliament

The character of the next two images changes radically. Now the images are very lyrical, as these images are in a counter-factually idealized future time.

Click to see sample #5 Illuminated "E", "S", "T" and "W" blend with a lyrical scene
Click to see sample #6 Illuminated "A", "T", "W", "S", "S" and "S" blend with a lyrical scene
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