A Brief History of the Graphic Novel

Abstract

The main visual device used in a comic book or graphic novel is a sequential array of images. As a visual communicative device, the sequential array of images has a long history. We see it in prehistoric cave art, the wall art of ancient Egyptian tombs, comic strips in newspapers, and most recently the digitally promulgated graphic novel, among other instances. As a visual narrative it is both impactful and highly recognisable. This is because it reduces the amount of information needed to communicate a succinct message using abstract iconography. This iconography evolved over the millennia until it formed its own lexicon and lingua franca within its media genre. Most recently, its conventions can now be relied on to communicate complex stories using digital media and the internet. This paper reviews the literature on the origins of the comic book art form, its current state and possible future directions. It provides an argument for the efficiency and enjoyment of this art form as a method for communicating information visually.//////document is a live template and already defines the components of your paper [title, text, heads, etc.] in its style sheet.