The Comic Book as Literature

Professor Fazal Yameen Faculty Advisor Indira Karamcheti

This course will examine the merits of the comic book, and its spin-off, the graphic novel, as “literature.” The recent literature-ization of comics will be addressed, as well as the means by which comics can communicate as a form of literature. We will examine several comics and graphic novels, along with other readings, in order to better understand the limitations and opportunities provided by the comic medium.

Requirements: Class presentation

Response paper for each reading

Final paper

Jan. 31: First Class

Feb. 7: Bring in your own issue

Feb 14: Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud

Feb. 21: Understanding Comics

Feb. 28: Fables: Legends in Exile (Issues 1-5) by Bill Willingham

March 7: The Sandman: Endless Nights by Neil Gaiman

Spring Break

March 28: Movie: Batman Begins

April 4: Batman: Hush (vol. 1) by Jim Lee

April 11: Batman: Hush (vol. 2)

April 18: Maus by Art Spiegelman

April 25: Watchmen by Alan Moore

May 2: Watchmen

May 9: Final paper due