So it was ... It will be so! (Dolgorukov N.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

This is a Soviet propaganda poster from 1941 titled It Was So... It Will Be So! by N. Dolgorukov. The poster is divided into two distinct halves, set against a stark black background.

In the upper half, Napoleon Bonaparte, depicted in a caricatured style, is shown in full retreat. He is fleeing from a powerful, looming, red pitchfork, with fallen soldiers and debris scattering behind him. The inscription НАПОЛЕОН (Napoleon) is visible on his coat. Above this scene, in large red Cyrillic letters, are the words ТАК БЫЛО... (It Was So...).

The lower half of the poster depicts Adolf Hitler, also caricatured and in a desperate state. He is being impaled by a red, spear-like object, suggesting a violent and definitive end. The word ГИТЛЕР (Hitler) is inscribed on his back, and he wears a Swastika armband. Below this image, in equally large red Cyrillic letters, are the words ТАК БУДЕТ! (It Will Be So!).

Subtexts:

The posters subtext is a clear and strong message of reassurance and defiance directed at the Soviet populace during the early stages of the German invasion in 1941.

• Historical Parallel: The poster draws a direct parallel between Napoleons disastrous invasion of Russia and the current invasion by Nazi Germany. By referencing Napoleons historical defeat, the poster aims to instill confidence in the Red Army and the Soviet people, suggesting that history is repeating itself and that Hitler will suffer the same fate as Napoleon.
• Guaranteed Victory: The title It Was So... It Will Be So! is a powerful assertion of inevitable Soviet victory. The past defeat of a formidable invader is presented as proof that the current invader will also be defeated.
• Dehumanization and Vilification: Both Napoleon and Hitler are depicted in a distorted, even grotesque, manner. This is a common propaganda technique to dehumanize the enemy, making them appear less formidable and more deserving of destruction. Hitler, in particular, is shown in agony, being pierced, emphasizing his impending doom.
• Call to Arms/Endurance: While not explicitly stated, the poster serves as a morale booster. It conveys a message that hardship is to be expected, but ultimate victory is assured. This was crucial in the grim initial days of the war as Germany advanced rapidly into Soviet territory.
• Symbolism of the Pitchfork/Spear: The red pitchfork and spear can symbolize hellish punishment, divine retribution, or the brutal force that will vanquish the invaders. The fact that they are red aligns with the Soviet flag and ideology, suggesting that this destructive force is on the side of justice and the Soviet Union.

In essence, the poster is a visual testament to Soviet resilience and a propaganda tool designed to bolster national spirit by reminding citizens of past victories against overwhelming odds and promising a similar triumph against the current enemy.