Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/25106
Title: Elements of the mythical and the political in comic books
Authors: Borg, Charlene
Keywords: Graphic novels
Comic books, strips, etc.
Barthes, Roland, 1915-1980. Mythologies -- Criticism and interpretation
Issue Date: 2017
Abstract: This dissertation focuses on Roland Barthes's concept of the opposing forces of the mythical and the political and how these can be found in comic books. According to Barthes, myth is the discourse which makes everything one experiences and encounters in the world around him seem natural and whatever goes against it unnatural, but this is only an illusion imposed by myth. The political is that which goes against myth and destroys the illusions it presents, thus making room for alternative views. As a product aimed for the masses, comic books seem to need to engage in these two discourses to express their support or opposition to certain issues in their society. In my dissertation, I focus mostly, but not exclusively, on superhero comic books and how these dealt with issues such as the Second World War, feminism and prejudice both on a racial and political level. I analyze how comic books handled myths about these and how they sometimes employed the political to try and bring change in their society. Throughout, I also note how the political is always in danger of being overcome by myth.
Description: B.A.(HONS)ENGLISH
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar//handle/123456789/25106
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - FacArt - 2017
Dissertations - FacArtEng - 2017

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