Comics Versus Novels

The meaning of Literature is a written composition in prose or verse, especially of lasting quality and merit. Literature is also any printed matter even if devoid of literary merit, an example is the Travel folder. I feel that Comics can and should be classed in the Genre of Literature as they are of lasting quality, artistic merit and contain the essence of prose.

(i) Plot: Common to both, the plots focus around current social and humanitarian issues.

(ii) Theme: Common to both, good versus evil, human society, ethics, values etc.

(iii) Characters: Common to both, characters exist as well-rounded personalities.

(iv) Situations: Common to both, details are given or depicted to enhance the effect of the storyline.

(v) Locations: Scenic locations are common to both, graphic depictions of geographical features in comics and in word descriptions, in novels.

(vi) Visualization: In books the reader uses his imagination to visualize the situation, on the other hand the reader of the comic book has the stunning graphics to assist and sustain his creative visualization.

(vii) Structure: Both novels, books and comics have a beginning, a middle and an end, the structure being complete in both.

(viii) Presentation: Novels and books are hard cover or bound, comics in their original form are usually soft cover, with colorful graphics and superb artwork. The comic annuals are sometimes hardcover or even bound.

(ix) Rarity: Both novels, books and comics get rare and appreciate in time.

(x) Inspirational value: Both the mediums inspire children and adults alike.

(xi) Recognition: Novels receive more literary recognition and praise than comics.

(xii) Value: A rare book and a rare comic have market value. However, a book is estimated at a higher price. It could also be because the book has a longer history and is much older than the comic, which is a recent creation.