Comic strips were definitely the 'big hit' for the start of the graphic novel/ comic book in the entertainment media industry, eventually being sold as 'dime novels'. It was the beginning of the simplification of drawing technique while maintaining a memorable unique style to them. First uses of the speech bubble and other comic strip tactics used today. Due to the revolutionary printing press, it made it easier for illustrators and writers to get their work out to everyone. Everyone had an easy access to their stories. All simplified, straight to the point, and a new popular source of amusement.
For the subject of the comic strip I chose to read through some of the Peanuts (which I grew up on), Calvin and Hobbs, and some of Little Nemo. Charles Schultz's Peanuts strip, The Peanuts Visit The Des Moines, is a great thing to look at as an introduction to/ "how it's made"of comic strips and the process it goes through to get to being publish in the printing press. The strip was well executed as an educational comic by taking his own iconic characters and breaking the fourth wall. It is very quaint and clever way to educate the public about the time and energy that goes into making newspaper strips.
One thing I did notice in all of the readings of the first few comic strips is that the artists decided (for the most part) to use an animal, real or imaginary, or a child as the main characters. To illustrate childhood experiences that the viewers can easily relate to what they are reading. For me personally I think a valid reasoning for choosing these two particular characters is not just for relating to readers, but also for one of the best audience to decide on new sources of enjoyment; children. Children are the best judges and pave the way for novel things. Although one thing for certain, is that these strips clear out the way for many creators to come and pass on their innovated fictional tales that we still get lost in today.
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