Graphic Novels and Comics as World Literature

Rezensionen / Stimmen

[In] seeking to broaden the definition of "World Literature" to encompass populations, identities, and countries often dismissed by Western literary studies, this collection advances a central claim relevant to scholars studying visual media in relation to postcolonialism, neoliberalism, identity politics, and marginalization: non-Western graphic novels and comics offer insight into identity politics, cultural backgrounds, and decolonization. * Midwest Modern Language Association * Graphic Novels and Comics as World Literature is a highly compelling read for all scholars who want to expand beyond a Euro-American-Japanese-centric approach in comic research and learn about comics' crucial contribution to world literature. The comprehensive essays in this volume point out the diversity of international comic production, circulation, and reception and stress the multiplicity of comics' structural codes. They outline the need for comic research to push for a decentered approach--by envisioning universality alongside unique perspectives. In doing so, this volume convincingly discusses world literature as a processual concept rather than affirming a normative canon. I consider this volume a key addition to the disputed field of world literature; by addressing the comic medium, it presents an urgently needed debordering in thinking about the world. * Marina Rauchenbacher, Research Associate, Department of German Studies, University of Vienna, Austria, and author of Karoline von Guenderrode. Eine Rezeptionsstudie (2014) * A rich journey, this book invites us to an intimate reading of comics as world literature from a Global South perspective. Playful yet aware of what is at stake literarily and politically, it transgresses geographical as well as disciplinary borders and opens our eyes to the stories of those who, more often than not, are denied border crossing. Thoroughly researched, well written, and passionate, it will appeal to literary scholars and comic book fans alike. * Sonja Mejcher-Atassi, Associate Professor of Arabic and Comparative Literature, American University of Beirut, Lebanon, and author of The Theatre of Sa'dallah Wannous: A Critical Study of the Syrian Playwright and Public Intellectual (2021) *