Moral Judgment in Evaluating Disease: Some Pictures for Discussion

The Old Maid’s Thermometer

The Old Maid’s Thermometer, c.1820, Lithograph, hand colored, McQueen & Company, Published by S. and J. Fuller, 34 Rathbone-Place, Bequest of Clements C. Fry 1955

This print traces an old maid’s path from youth to middle age, providing a disposition for each age. Though intended as a parody, it is difficult to ignore the moral and judgmental undertones presented at each stage. And yet, the humor of the piece relies on the ubiquity of the moral framework captured within.