British Comics Creators module (EN41024)

This module explores British culture and society through the lens of comics from the late 19th century to the present.

It examines the rise of the British comics industry and its connections to other comics cultures (notably American comics), and the changing role of comics creators (primarily writers and artists).

There is a focus on themes such as genre, politics, satire, metafiction and changing modes of publishing and distribution, from newspaper strips and comics books to graphic novels and digital comics.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about British comics history and a range of British comic creators
• develop a literary appreciation of comics
• explore a range of cultural and critical theories focused on the nature and significance of comics
• examine the place of comics in relation to other mediums

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• demonstrate the ability to write informed and independent critical analysis of relevant texts
• show knowledge of the range of theoretical approaches to the comics studied on the module
• show an awareness of key aspects of history and critical debate in relation to the texts and theories studied

Assignments / assessment

• close analysis exercise - 1,500 words (40%)
• research essay - 4,000 words (60%)

Teaching methods / timetable

The primary modes of teaching employed in this module are the lecture presentation followed by class discussion (in the seminar, through discussions boards, and other forms of engagement).

You are expected to read the primary material and secondary material (scholarly work, interviews) each week to provide context and a critical framework for analysis.

Learning comes from analysis of both primary and secondary material and discussion in class and through online tasks. You will engage in close analysis of the texts and test their ideas through discussion.