Beginning with the inception of photography in the mid-1800s, the proliferation of visual images has placed an increased importance on our culture’s ability to interpret them correctly. The effect of visual images on a culture cannot be understated. Indeed, some critics argue that visual images have become a major source of information about our society and culture. John O’Connor (1990) reminds us of Vachael Lindsay’s characterization of the United States as a “hieroglyphic civilization,” one in which “images-turned-icons” allow us “literally [to] see the fundamental tensions” in culture. Understanding this “hieroglyphic civilization” permits us to identify and analyze our symbols of hate.