ENGL 2072 - Graphic Narratives: Comics as Literature

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture NoneLab None
Course Description: This college literature course intended for all students will analyze and explore selected graphic novels and other comics. Students will study 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): Assessment score placement in RDNG 1000 or higher, or completion of RDNG 0900 or RDNG 0950 with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: Completion of ENGL 1021 with a grade of C or higher.

Major Content

Comics as Literature
Definitions: comics and suggested equivalent terms (e.g. graphic narratives, narrative art), features of the medium (e.g. panel, gutter, word balloon), art and design terms (e.g. abstraction, closure, icon)
Formal design elements of comics
Close reading
Comics history
Comics genres
Visual literacy
Definition of literature and canon formation

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course students will be able to:

Demonstrate awareness of the scope and variety of works in comics.
Analyze basic literary elements in works studied.
Analyze formal design elements in works studied.
Analyze these works as expressions of individual and human values within an historical and social context.
Articulate an informed personal reaction to works in comics.
Demonstrate awareness of the unique features of the comics medium.
Respond critically to works in comics.

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ENGL 2072 - Graphic Narratives: Comics as Literature