Exploring the Many Genres of the Comic World

Since at least the 17th century, and perhaps long before, comics have been a part of many cultures, a way of conveying an idea or story through pictures and words that predate today's familiar styles and formats. Now comics can be found in most newspapers, many magazines, and book form. Some are created to chronical the adventures of super heroes, others give a satirical view of politics and world issues, and others, well, they just make us laugh, if only for a moment.

Comics have come a long way from the old Superman and Batman comic books many of us read as kids or the Blondie and Beetle Bailey comic strips we laughed at and still enjoy today. Comics are big business, many inspiring big budget movies and several television series. Merchandising brings us Garfield stuffed toys and Spiderman action figures, taking the comics off the page and into every part of our lives to enjoy, share, and memorialize.

Whether one likes reading the "funnies" in the newspaper, or a comic book about The Fantastic Four, there is a comic for everyone. The many genres run the spectrum from science fiction, horror, and suspense, to comedy featuring animals with human characteristics, daily life of the caveman or busy mom, and political satire most often to lambast a political figure or party.

One comic form that has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years is the manga. Manga comics originate in Japan and are recognizable by their style and story lines. Manga comics are often ongoing stories printed in a thick book and read from right cover to left. Manga, however, runs the gamut of genres as do comics created in the United States and other countries.

Comics come from the imaginations and ideals of independent artists with their own take on the world around them, resulting in a wide variety of themes and characters. They inspire us, make us think, and thoroughly entertain us. Whether the comic is in black and white or vivid, sweeping colors, each one invokes a certain feel for what the artist is trying to convey. Sometimes simplicity can be powerful. Sometimes color and detail can be subtle. However an artist decides to portray his craft, there will always be someone who looks forward to the next issue or the next instalment of super heroes or funny slapstick.
 

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