Cartooning With a Point

The National Archives of Britain has an amazing selection of wartime propaganda cartoons. The Archives states "Illustrations were provided in a traditional comic style in an effort to keep everyone at all levels involved in the war effort. Children were targeted with illustrations in a typical ‘Boys Own´ style, whilst the images would also appeal to adults remembering their own childhood (and looking to protect their children's futures). New characters were invented for propaganda purposes, including Firebomb Fritz, and often took on a life of their own." Some images, such as the one below, were obviously geared toward adults1.

Though this print lacks a caption, the overall meaning is quite obvious. Using clean art style and a limited palette this three panel comic paints a striking image of the R.A.F. in action. There is a definite sense of national pride. Smiling officers shake the hands of fresh faced pilots, a midair dogfight with the obvious enemy in black and angelic British pilots in white, all ending in a violent explosion and successful bomb drop for the Allied Forces. Images following this style provides a patriotic view for those back home. The brutality of war is glossed over by creating an easy to follow "us vs them" style. Britain may be experiencing bombing of their own, but at least they're sending just as much as they are receiving.

On the subject of bombs, Firebomb Fritz2 became a popular character for both children and adults. Over the top cartoonish style transforms the terrifying reality of city bombings into a farce3.

The Archives state that Fritz's purpose was to both warn and assure citizens about bombs. Firebombs were a threat, however with the proper treatment the devices became harmless. The first image depicts Fritz as a hotheaded villain, spewing steam and jumping up and down much like a frustrated child might. The second image shows German bombers following the will of a maniacal bomb on its way to England. The power is taken away from the Germans themselves and placed into objects made only for destruction. In this way, the situation has a humorous element that simultaneously cuts down fear of the German attacks. 

This next cartoon board shows the rescue of a bombed cargo ship4. Thanks to quick action by both the crew and rescuers on shore, the ship is saved and the delivery is completed. The colours of this selection are black and grey, so it lacks the vivid storytelling of the R.A.F cartoon, yet they both tell the story of British action and ingenuity. 

(Since this image is quite small, click HERE to see

a larger image. The zoom tab on the upper right

hand side will allow you to look at each panel

much more closely.)

Cartooning, when harnessed properly, inspired children and adults alike to look at the war in a new way. A picture is indeed worth a thousand words when images are able to convey a quick message of patriotism or war updates in a few short panels. The British government seemed to be very aware the pictorial messages of these comics were accessible to all. As such, the right image at the right time could carry the nation through a difficult period and would stay with the public long after the war had ended. 

End Notes:
1 RAF Cartoon, 1939-1945.
2 Mount, Firebomb Fritz, 1942
3 Mount, Fritz in Nazi Bomber, 1942.
4 Crew of a Merchant Ship, 1942. 

Bibliography:

Crew of a Merchant Ship. 1942. http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/theartofwar/ill/comics/INF3_0875.htm

Mount, Reginald. Firebomb Fritz. 1942.
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/theartofwar/ill/comics/INF3_1426.htm

Mount, Reginald. Fritz in Nazi Bomber. 1942. http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/theartofwar/ill/comics/INF3_1421.htm

RAF Cartoon. 1939-1945.
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/theartofwar/ill/comics/INF3_0562.htm