The Arrest of "Boss Tweed" -Another good joke. The shadow of justice. "I'll make some of you cry yet" "Sheriff Brennan merely nodded to Mr. Tweed, bade him 'Good-day,' and laying his hand tenderly on his shoulder, said laughingly, 'You're my man!' it seemed like a deliciously cool joke, and judging from the faces, it was. New York Tribune." In the paragraph, interpret the message of this Thomas Nast Political cartoon, which shows Boss Tweed laughing as he is being arrested while the Shadow of Justice looks on. Be sure to read the captions carefully and consider what each character in the cartoon might represent. In particular, what is suggested by the words of Sheriff Brennan and the Shadow of Justice?
In this Thomas Nast political cartoon, the message conveyed is that despite Boss Tweed being arrested, there is a sense of irony and injustice present. The cartoon mocks the idea of justice being served as Boss Tweed is seen laughing while being apprehended. This suggests that he doesn't believe he will face any serious consequences for his actions.
The caption "I'll make some of you cry yet" implies his confidence and power, implying that Tweed believes he still wields influence and can manipulate the situation to his advantage.
Sheriff Brennan's words, "You're my man!" and his lighthearted demeanor, suggest a lack of seriousness in the arrest. The sheriff's actions and words seem more like a joke or a charade rather than a legitimate effort to bring Tweed to justice. This reflects the perceived corruption and close ties between political figures and influential figures like Tweed.
The Shadow of Justice represents the facade of justice and the idea that there is a presence of justice, but it remains elusive and ineffective. Despite its existence, it seems powerless against Tweed's power and influence. This implies that the corrupt system allows individuals like Boss Tweed to escape punishment and continue their wrongdoing.