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The Emergence of the Graphic Novel, (Week 5)

Will Eisner’s approach to archetype is an interesting one, somewhat influenced by his religious background. Using his characters as a mouthpiece for his ideals, such as in his story of “A Life Force,” where our primary characters, one of which is a hobo, discuss how “they” perceive life and the human experience. In one particular scene I adore, the homeless man is sitting in an alleyway talking about the struggles that both a man and a cockroach must face; and relates this to the shared idea of survival that the sane human race collectively agrees on, regardless of personal ideals or religion. “It seems to be the only thing we can agree on!?!” Comparable to his energy filled discussions is his approach to art, especially the way he designs his characters and their expressions.


Many of Eisner’s characters are very expressive, using their whole body to convey an emotion. Using their shoulders, hands, faces, even the positioning of their feet or where their eyes are can tell us subtle emotional or logical shifts. Vast abstractions of these characters’ actions can help show their archetype, whether a shifty salesman or a sweet old lady, the way that they say what they want is just as important as what they are saying, if not sometimes more. If two characters in Will Eisner's story are talking about the price of a hot dog, but one is saying it while checking all around him and having his voice toned down during the conversation, contrary to the opposite character who is beaming with a smile and practically shouting his opinion, their actions tell us far more about the character than what they are saying. The use of expressive character along with the complex themes explored are what make these stories resonate initially and stick with us for years to come. 

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