Graphic Novels

by

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LITERATURE REVIEW1

Graphical Novel-Definition1

Use of Graphic Novels in the Curriculum2

Intrinsic Motivation2

Using Graphic Novels in Classrooms3

REFERENCES4

Graphic Novels

Literature Review

Graphical Novel-Definition

Graphical novel is the narrative form of literature and stories that are conveyed by using the art of sequential pictures and graphical illustrations, which could be either in a comical format or an experimental design. This work is employed in a very broader perspective, comprising of non-fictional work and linking themes with short stories in order to create an image.

According to America Library Association (2006), the format of graphical novels was described to as the only product in today's world that shares the similar techniques like films. Graphical novels have been described by ALA (2006) as being more varied and sophisticated in terms of content as compared to the comics that preceded them. At times, graphic novels re published comprising of a series of comics somewhat like the novel of Dickens that are serialized narratives; and at other times they are published as complete novels exhibiting novelistic features like multiple story-lines and character development. There are number of series that are layered under the category of graphic novels, such as X-Men.

If graphic novels prompt the question of literature's definition, such a question is not without its own history and internal debates. An argument for graphic novels as a literary form must not answer only to comic's scholarship, by showing what aspects of comics can warrant their literary consideration as do Witek or Hatfield (as cited by Crawford, 2004). It must also have a footing in theories of literature if it is to overcome the shortcomings in their argument. Without awareness of scholarly debates on definitions of literature, one is condemned to fall back on intuitive and inadequate concepts.

Use of Graphic Novels in the Curriculum

Recently, graphical novels have been receiving great attention ...