The Graphic Novel

How do we read graphic novels?

Objectives

• To understand notions of closure and handling of time in the graphic novel

• To consider what contextual information we need to develop our understanding of ABC?

• To begin to consider themes/issues in the text

Closure

• Why do Ostriches stick their heads in the sand?

• Why DON’T humans?

• Or do they..?!

Closure

• Why do infants enjoy (mostly) the game of peek-a-boo?

• Why do they quickly ‘grow out’ of such games?

Closure

• In the images on the right, you can’t see the characters’ legs, yet you ASSUME they are THERE…

• Even though THEY’RE NOT!!

Closure

The phenomenon of OBSERVING THE

PARTS but PERCEIVING the whole

Closure

• Analyse the 4 panel sequence (p170)

• What function does closure play in the sequence?

• How far do we as readers collaborate in the production of meaning?

… A MEDIUM WHERE THE AUDIENCE IS A WILLING AND CONSCIOUS COLLABORATORAND CLOSURE IS THE AGENT OF CHANGE, TIME AND MOTION.

Putting it all together

• Create a narrative in 3 panels, using 2 of the transitions categorised on pp70-72 of Closure.pdf

• Consider:1. Closure2. Text & Image3. Sequence

TIP - The art of closure is a refined skill, where the author provides enough information to draw his or her viewers in, but not so much as to give away the mystery.