The world of comics is vast and varied, ranging from superhero sagas to introspective graphic novels. But what truly defines a “comic”? Is it simply any drawing paired with words? Scott McCloud, in his seminal work “Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art,” delves deep into this question, offering a compelling definition that challenges our assumptions and even sheds light on the seemingly innocuous “Family Circus” comic strip.
In his 1993 book, McCloud embarks on a unique journey of explaining comics theory through the medium itself – a 200+ page comic book. Narrated by a cartoon version of himself, McCloud directly addresses the reader, using the visual language of comics to illustrate his points. For McCloud, the crucial element is sequential art. Isolated images, even with captions, do not a comic make. He argues that single-panel works, like the widely syndicated “Family Circus,” are more accurately described as cartoons – illustrations juxtaposed with text.
(kom’iks) n. plural in form, used with a singular verb. 1. Juxtaposed pictorial and other images in deliberate sequence, intended to convey information and/or to produce an aesthetic response in the viewer. (“Understanding Comics,” p. 9).
According to this definition, “Family Circus,” while undeniably a cartoon, falls short of being a “comic” in McCloud’s framework. This isn’t necessarily a slight against the wholesome, if often predictable, humor of “Family Circus Comics.” Instead, it highlights the specific nature of sequential art that McCloud champions. His definition, however, is far from restrictive. As he elaborates in “Understanding Comics,” it encompasses a broad spectrum of genres, styles, and subjects, unbound by traditional notions of what comics should be.
McCloud’s definition is particularly significant when considering visual rhetoric. Notably, it doesn’t necessitate the presence of words. This bold assertion underscores McCloud’s belief in the power of visual communication and his proposition that comics could be a contender for a universal visual language. He even visualizes the relationship between images and words as a continuum, demonstrating their interconnectedness in communication.
These are profound ideas, far beyond the simplistic perception some might have of “comics.” But that’s precisely McCloud’s point. He challenges us to reconsider the very essence of comics, pushing beyond traditional boundaries to recognize its potential as a powerful and versatile art form. To delve further into McCloud’s insightful perspectives, his TED Talk offers an engaging 17-minute exploration of these concepts.
