Intro to Comics
Comics have long been a cherished form of storytelling, captivating audiences with their unique blend of visual art and narrative. Originating in the late 19th century, comics began as simple, humorous strips in newspapers but quickly evolved into a diverse and sophisticated medium. They are more than just colorful pictures and dialogue; they are a powerful cultural artifact that reflects societal issues, personal struggles, and fantastical adventures.
One of the most appealing aspects of comics is their ability to transport readers into vividly imagined worlds. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Gotham City, the intergalactic adventures of the Guardians of the Galaxy, or the everyday trials of teenage life in “Archie,” comics offer a form of escapism that is both accessible and profound. Through the combination of striking visuals and engaging narratives, they allow readers to experience the extraordinary within the confines of the ordinary.
The visual nature of comics makes them a universal language. The art provides context and emotion that transcend words, allowing readers from different backgrounds and cultures to connect with the story. A single panel can convey complex emotions and actions, making comics a versatile and powerful storytelling tool. This visual storytelling is complemented by the dialogue and narration, which add depth and nuance to the characters and plot.
Comics are also a rich source of cultural commentary. They often address contemporary issues, from politics and social justice to environmental concerns and personal identity.
Comics are broken into 4 eras based on when they were published.
Silver Age (1956–1970)
The Silver Age of Comic Books began with the publication of DC Comics' Showcase #4 (Oct. 1956), which introduced the modern version of the Flash. At the time, only three superheroes—Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman—were still published under their own titles. The Comics Code was a dominating force during the Silver Age. The Code restricted many topics from being covered in stories: this prevented certain genres, such as crime and horror comics, from being sold at most comic book shops, and also helped superheroes stay popular and culturally relevant. The underground comix movement began at the end of the Silver Age in response to the restrictions of the Code, and was part of the broader counterculture of the 1960s.
Modern Age (1985–present)
The Modern Age of Comic Books is a period in the history of American superhero comic books which is generally considered to have begun in 1985 and continues through the present day. During approximately the first 15 years of this period, many comic book characters were redesigned, creators gained prominence in the industry, independent comics flourished, and larger publishing houses became more commercialized. An alternative name for this period is the Dark Age of Comic Books, due to the popularity and artistic influence of titles with serious content, such as Batman: The Dark Knight Returns and Watchmen.
Golden Age (1938–1956)
The Golden Age of Comic Books describes an era of American comic books from 1938 to 1956. During this time, comic books were first published and rapidly increased in popularity. The superhero archetype was created and many well-known characters were introduced, including Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel, Captain America, and Wonder Woman.
Bronze Age (1970–1985)
The Bronze Age of Comic Books is an informal name for a period in the history of American superhero comic books usually said to run from 1970 to 1985. It follows the Silver Age of Comic Books and is followed by the Modern Age of Comic Books. The Bronze Age retained many of the conventions of the Silver Age, with traditional superhero titles remaining the mainstay of the industry. However, a return of darker plot elements and storylines more related to relevant social issues, such as racism, began to flourish during the period, prefiguring the later Modern Age of Comic Books.
