Why Are Comic Books Not Seen As The Venerated Combination Of Art And Storytelling?
In our society, both art and storytelling hold significant place and value. Despite this, comic books, a form of literature that seamlessly blends the two, have often been under-recognized. This article explores the reasons behind this misunderstanding and reflects on the potential of comic books to be highly regarded as a cultural treasure.
Comic Books as a Medium of Art and Storytelling
Comic books are a unique medium that incorporates both art and storytelling in a way that is not always appreciated. Art and storytelling are closely intertwined in comic books, where visual art, narrative, and dialogue work in harmony.
However, the design and material used in comic books often hamper their recognition. Comic books typically use cheap paper and are mass-produced like newspapers. They are often used to wrap food or discarded for other purposes, leading to a perception that they are not durable or valuable in the same way as other forms of art. This practicality contributes to the low status of comic books in society.
Comparing Graphic Novels with High and Low Art
It is incorrect to categorize all comic books as low art. While many comic books are indeed quick pulp fiction with a focus on action and visual appeal over carefully crafted storytelling, there are notable exceptions. Graphic novels, a subset of comic books, exemplify the merging of art and storytelling in a way that can be highly celebrated. A good example is Art Spiegelman’s Maus.
Maus is a Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel that not only tells a compelling story but also illustrates complex themes. This powerful work was so impactful that it scared the Tennessee State Board of Education into banning it, an indication of its deep cultural importance. Works like Maus prove that comic books can be seriously considered as high art and offer a durable means of storytelling.
Challenging Perceptions of Comic Books
The perception that comic books are not worth recognition as high art primarily stems from their material, mass-produced nature. However, this does not mean that comic books lack artistic or literary value. The days of considering comic books only as quick, disposable entertainment are fading. Today, graphic novels are in academic and literary circles, offering rich and meaningful storytelling experiences.
Moreover, graphic novels often contain in-depth narratives that explore themes, characters, and emotions. Titles like Persepolis, Love and Rockets, and Blankets demonstrate the capacity of graphic novels to be nuanced and thought-provoking. These works should be appreciated as serious contributions to the realm of art and storytelling, not simply as mass-produced comics.
Conclusion
Comic books have the potential to be a rich and respected medium for both art and storytelling. While many comic books are indeed low art products, graphic novels such as Maus have shown that comic books can be highly regarded, offering complex narratives and visual story-telling.
As society continues to appreciate the value of comics, it is crucial to recognize the potential of this medium to be a significant part of high culture. The recognition of comic books as both art and storytelling reflects a broader appreciation for the diverse forms of expression in our society.