A Diller, a Dollar

Traditionally Modern - Looks Traditional, Sounds Modern

A modern attitude contrasts with traditional elements in this illustration.

Traditional elements include the attire of the teacher and the student as well as the air of authority exuded by the teacher (a wolf). The student’s size (he is a puppy) makes him appear insignificant next to the teacher. Other traditional elements are the dunce cap on the stool and the quill pen on the teacher’s desk.

The modern attitude is reflected in the student, who takes his teacher to task, saying, “Sir, if I may be permitted to say so, sarcasm has no place in the classroom.” It is only in modern times that a student, especially one with a history of chronic tardiness, would presume to critique a teacher. In traditional times, when corporal punishment was permitted, a comment such as the student makes in this illustration was not only bold, but also potentially dangerous.