ENGL 2072 - Comics: Introduction to Literary Studies

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3 Lab None
Course Description: This college literature course intended for all students focuses on the analysis and exploration of selected graphic novels and other comics. Topics include exploring the literary and formal design elements of the works selected and consider the unique features of this medium. Selections may include works by Lynda Barry, Daniel Clowes, Will Eisner, Neil Gaiman, Scott McCloud, Alan Moore, Marjane Satrapi, and Art Spiegelman.
MnTC Goals
6 Humanities/Fine Arts

Prerequisite(s): Course placement into college-level English and Reading OR completion of ENGL 0950  with a grade of C or higher OR completion of RDNG 0940  with a grade of C or higher and qualifying English Placement Exam OR completion of RDNG 0950  with a grade of C or higher and ENGL 0090  with a grade of C or higher OR completion of ESOL 0051  with a grade of C or higher and ESOL 0052  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: ENGL 1020   with a grade of C or higher OR ENGL 1021  with a grade of C or higher.

Major Content

1. Comics as Literature
2. Definitions
   a. comics and suggested equivalent terms (e.g. graphic narratives, narrative art)
   b. features of the medium (e.g. panel, gutter, word balloon) 

   c. art and design terms (e.g. abstraction, closure, icon)
3. Formal design elements of comics
4. Close reading
5. Comics history
6. Comics genres
7. Visual literacy
8. Definition of literature and canon formation
9. Using primary and secondary sources

1. describe the scope and variety of comics.
2. identify major critical frameworks at an introductory level.
3. perform close analysis of literary and design elements of comics at an introductory level.
4. employ major critical frameworks to analyze comics at an introductory level.
5. incorporate and document secondary sources at an introductory level.
6. articulate an informed personal reaction to comics.
7. analyze comics as expressions of individual and human values within historical and social contexts.

06. 02. Understand those works as expressions of individual and human values within an historical and social context.

06. 03. Respond critically to works in the arts and humanities.

06. 05. Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in the arts and humanities.

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