Category: comics

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Reflections of the Self in “Infidel”

As I prepared to teach Pornsak Pichetshote, Aaron Campbell, and Jose Villarrubia’s Infidel, a lot of things stuck out. However, when I reread the haunted house story where the monsters that terrorize the characters are the manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and Islamophobia, I became intrigued by a few specific scenes where the monsters appear in the reflections of objects such as knives and mirrors. … Read More Reflections of the Self in “Infidel”

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500th Post: David F. Walker Syllabus

For a while I have been thinking about a syllabus based on the work of David F. Walker. Recently, I was spurred on to work up a tentative syllabus through a discussion online, and as such, this is what I present to you today. This syllabus is in not way complete. However, it is meant to serve as an introduction to the ways to … Read More 500th Post: David F. Walker Syllabus

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Subverting the Superhero in Mat Johnson and Warren Pleece’s “Incognegro”

Last post, I started writing about Zane Pinchback’s transformation into Incognegro in Mat Johnson and Warren Pleece’s graphic novel. Specifically, I focused on Zane looking in the mirror and having the haunting specters of the past superimposed over his reflection in the mirror. Today, I want to continue this discussion by looking at the rest of this seen, notably the next panel where the … Read More Subverting the Superhero in Mat Johnson and Warren Pleece’s “Incognegro”

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The Construction of History in Guy Delisle’s “Jerusalem”

“History is written by the victors.” Only a few weeks ago, this aphorism appeared on national television when Attorney General William Barr responded to a question from CBS’s Catherine Herridge about the dismissing of charges against Michael Flynn by asking, “When history looks back on this decision, how do you think it will be written?” Barr answered his own question with the following, “Well … Read More The Construction of History in Guy Delisle’s “Jerusalem”

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Barriers in Guy Delisle’s “Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City”

Connections lead to understanding. Connections lead to a break down in the beliefs and myths that keep us separated. Connections bridge the chasms that exist between us. However, one must be open to these connections. If one is not open, then no matter what connections a person makes, they will always succumb to the myths and fears that reside within one’s brain. In Jerusalem: … Read More Barriers in Guy Delisle’s “Jerusalem: Chronicles from the Holy City”