Simplicity is always combined with a bit of sophistication. This irony suits our protagonist – Graphic Novel very well. It is simple but deep and complex. This contemporary literary phenomenon has managed to turn heads these days. Largely due to superhero comics.
Graphic novels have also been subject to prejudice for not possessing the potential to be an integral part of the literary world. But history tells us another story. This medium of literature has been around us unassuming for centuries. Prehistoric cave paintings, tapestries from the Middle Ages and illuminated manuscripts attest to this. The great works that emerged during the Renaissance Era have created a serious impact on the way art should be perceived. The creations of legends like Michelangelo and Da Vinci stand the test of time.
This medium has constantly evolved over the years and has reached the current status of being a powerful medium. The main reason for this is simply because anything visual has 90% more impact than text form. A study from the University of Oklahoma promises that graphic novels can improve memory and be more effective at teaching students than a traditional textbook.
In fact, graphic novels make textbooks deter children from willingly acquiring the habit of reading. However, they are not glorified comics. But they are distinguished by their substantial use of images alongside text to tell a story. The whole concept of children’s graphic novels was initially aimed at English learners and students with learning disabilities. Now that its potential is unfolding, more and more regular classrooms are adapting graphic novels to teach different subjects for students of all levels.
They turn out to be wonderful learning tools simply because of the visual impact they create on our brains. Graphic novels are not just picture books. The text also plays a vital role. But they have to be crisp and catchy. With the correct words and illustrations working together, they make learning fun and fast. The graphics give an overview of what the concept is about and this encourages the child to read everything, especially helps children who are afraid of books.
Graphic novels are not just distinguished literary forms. They are becoming an effective learning medium that has the scope to make any subject engaging. Whether it’s teaching complicated math concepts or telling stories through artwork, this medium of illustration is sure to echo in the future.