Critical Survey of Graphic Novels: History, Theme \u0026 Technique by Bart H. Beaty

History, Theme & Technique collects more than 80 essays on the evolution of the graphic novel, from its conceptual beginnings to its gradual acceptance. This volume covers the unique process of creating a product both in art and in word; historical overviews track the complex development of this important art form, while the survey of key themes, genres, and events, albeit far from exhaustive, will help define the major milestones and provide an important foundation for future research. This single-volume includes over 80 essays covering themes and concepts of graphic novels, including genres, time periods, foreign-language traditions, social relevance, and craftsmanship. A wide spectrum of other genres is also presented in critical format, ranging from the nationalistic, such as Japanese manga and African graphic novels, to the traditional, such as Westerns, science fiction, and the archetypal superhero genre and mythos. This set also provides insight into various aspects of the industry, from techniques such a lettering, inking, and illustration, to the production and distribution of graphic novels and the significance of comic book conventions, Issues of readership and literacy, library collection development, and censorship are also covered. The essays in