Comics as History, Comics as Literature
Roles of the Comic Book in Scholarship, Society, and Entertainment
Edited by Annessa Ann Babic
Not available to order
Publication date:
11 December 2013Length of book:
288 pagesPublisher
Fairleigh Dickinson University PressISBN-13: 9781611475579
This anthology hosts a collection of essays examining the role of comics as portals for historical and academic content, while keeping the approach on an international market versus the American one. Few resources currently exist showing the cross-disciplinary aspects of comics. Some of the chapters examine the use of Wonder Woman during World War II, the development and culture of French comics, and theories of Locke and Hobbs in regards to the state of nature and the bonds of community. More so, the continual use of comics for the retelling of classic tales and current events demonstrates that the genre has long passed the phase of for children’s eyes only. Additionally, this anthology also weaves graphic novels into the dialogue with comics.
Comics is a visual medium used to express ideas via images, often combined with text or visual information. Comics frequently takes the form of juxtaposed sequences of panels of images. Often textual devices such as speech balloons, captions, and sound effects indicate dialogue, narration, or other information. Elements such as size and arrangement of panels control narrative pacing. Cartooning and similar forms of illustration are the most common image-making means in comics; fumetti is a form which uses photographic images. Common forms of comics include comic strips, editorial and gag cartoons, and comic books. Since the late 20th century, bound volumes such as graphic novels, comics albums, and tankobon have become increasingly common, and online webcomics have proliferated. Compiled and edited by Annessa An Babic, 'Comics as History, Comics as Literature: Roles of the COmic Book Scholarship, Society, and Entertainment' is a 272 page compendium comprised of thirteen articulate, erudite, and seminal essays on the cultural impact of comics. Of special note is 'SuperGay: Depictions of Homosexuality in Mainstream Superhero Comics'. A seminal body of impressive scholarship that is enhanced with the inclusion of an extensive bibliography and a comprehensive index, Comics As History, Comics As Literature is very highly recommended reading and an invaluable addition to academic library Popular Culture Studies and Literary Studies reference collections.