Indeed, by immediately demonstrating the intent to create a comic strip-based explanation of the field of comic through corresponding exposition and illustration, the author both contends and shows that comics can have purpose, intelligence and even depth.
This chapter is driven by the topic of providing definition for the term comic. The author succeeds well at breaching this subject, using the simplicity of language and the emotional appeal of his cartoon characters to introduce the uninitiated to the selected subject matter. McCloud describes comics according to the words of "Master comics artist Will Eisner," who "uses the term sequential art when describing comics. Taken individually, the pictures below [as shown in the comic] are merely that -- pictures." (McCloud, 5) the author goes on to contend that when sequenced, even with only two images instead of one, the 'art of comics emerges.' The core impetus for this definitional discussion...
The individual with limited exposure may find this a useful introductory primer whereas the cartoonist may find this a clever work of scholarly reference. Indeed, the interest taken by the author in justifying an academic discussion on his chosen subject matter -- particularly in such declared ambitions as conducting "a little aesthetic surgery and separate[ing] for from content!" (McCloud, 5) it is thus that we may estimate that McCloud's deconstruction takes a path which is of most use to those with a direct artistic or professional reason to further engage the discourse on this medium for artistry.
Works Cited
McCloud, S. (1993). Understanding Comics. Tundra Publishing.
