How to Cite a Political Cartoon MLA
Political cartoons are a powerful tool for conveying social, political, and economic messages. They often use humor, satire, and symbolism to make a point, and as such, they can be a valuable source of information for researchers and students. When citing a political cartoon in MLA format, it is important to follow the proper guidelines to ensure that the citation is accurate and complete. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite a political cartoon in MLA format.
Step 1: Identify the Source
The first step in citing a political cartoon is to identify the source. This includes the title of the cartoon, the name of the cartoonist, the title of the publication, the date of publication, and the URL or page number if available. For example:
“Cartoon Title,” by Cartoonist Name, Publication Title, Date of Publication, URL or Page Number.
Step 2: Format the In-text Citation
In MLA format, the in-text citation should include the name of the cartoonist and the page number (if available). For example:
(Cartoonist Name 1)
If the cartoon is not from a specific page, you can use the title of the cartoon instead:
(Cartoon Title)
Step 3: Create the Works Cited Entry
The Works Cited entry should include all the information from the source, formatted according to MLA guidelines. For example:
Cartoonist Name. “Cartoon Title.” Publication Title, Date of Publication, URL or Page Number.
If the cartoon is from a website, include the URL in the Works Cited entry:
Cartoonist Name. “Cartoon Title.” Publication Title, Date of Publication, URL.
Step 4: Include Additional Information
If the cartoon is part of a larger collection or exhibition, include the name of the collection or exhibition in the Works Cited entry. For example:
Cartoonist Name. “Cartoon Title.” Collection or Exhibition Title, Date of Publication, URL.
Step 5: Consider the Medium
When citing a political cartoon, it is important to consider the medium in which it was published. If the cartoon is from a print publication, include the page number. If it is from a digital source, include the URL or the page number if available.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your citation of a political cartoon in MLA format is accurate and complete. Remember to always double-check the guidelines provided by your instructor or publisher to ensure that you are following the correct citation style.
