Analyzing a propaganda poster

Propaganda is an attempt of influencing people's behaviour and opinion using specific images. The information is partial and its presentation looks for a emotional reaction in the viewer. During 20th century these posters were commonly used by governments and parties.

In spite of the variety of posters, all of them share some elements:

a) Stereotypes: They were used for characterizing some groups or the enemies. It is a simplification of reality and diversity, based normally on a racist points of view. 

b) Symbols: in propaganda posters, some symbols represent ideas. For instance, chains represent slavery; uncle Sam represents USA. 

c) Textual elements: The text used is direct and short. It is common the use of the word YOU for appealing the population and the use of imperative tense to call to action (enrolling in the army, buying bond, etc). Normally, posters uses direct speech and rhetorical questions. At same time, posters combine colors or words' size for highlighting some elements. For example, it is usual to recognize some words in red or bigger than the rest.

d) Emotions: propaganda tries to manipulate population's feelings in order to get a specific answer. The most common ones are patriotism, guilt, shame, or fear.

(Source: British Library)