Dr. Sangrado Relieving John Bull of Yellow Fever Possibly 1795

Isaac Cruikshank created this etching, "Dr. Sangrado Relieving John Bull of Yellow Fever," at the turn of the 19th century. The print satirizes British politics, particularly the economic policies impacting the common citizen, represented by the figure of John Bull. The imagery works through visual and historical codes. "Dr. Sangrado" refers to a character from Alain-René Lesage's novel, known for excessive bloodletting as a cure-all, a critique of ineffective or harmful medical practices. Here, it comments on the government's draining of resources from John Bull, who is being bled of gold coins, symbolizing taxes, while figures representing the government prescribe further draining measures. The "yellow fever" suggests economic distress. Cruikshank critiques the government's detachment from the people's suffering. Understanding this piece means diving into the political cartoons and popular culture of the time. Resources such as period newspapers, political pamphlets, and social histories can shed light on the specific policies and figures being lampooned. The role of art, in this case, is a tool for social commentary and resistance.