Ruptures in Depiction—Recognition and Political Cartoons of Putin: From a Strategic Mastermind to the Object of Contempt and Mockery

Abstract This article contributes to discussions over the role of recognition in international relations by focusing on an aspect of popular culture, specifically political cartoons. It argues that studying political cartoons may contribute to capturing aspects of recognition that go beyond those rooted in formal interactions between states and thereby enhance our understanding of what Ringmar called the recognition game. The article focuses on political cartoons about Russia/Putin in two periods. The first is after the annexation of Crimea, while the second is after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The tones of caricatures in these two periods differ radically. Images in the first depict a transgressive Putin to be feared. While not necessarily a flattering image, the article argues that this set of images can be interpreted as a form of recognition of Russia being a great power to be reckoned with and could encourage Russia’s reckless moves later. Once we get to the second period, however, there is a rupture. The tone of depiction changes, showing a pathetic, deplorable Putin. These images do not simply convey misrecognition, but convey humiliation, a difference somewhat overlooked by the discipline.