Why are comic books still underrated in 2023?

In the world of storytelling, few mediums have been as consistently misunderstood and underestimated as comic books. Many perceive them as mere sources of entertainment, dismissing their value and failing to recognize the psychological and societal depths that lie within their pages. Surprisingly, even as we are in the year 2023, comic books continue to be met with unwarranted skepticism and underrated status. But why this happens? Let's explore together some key factors contributing to the persistent undervaluation of comic books, shedding light on their significance and the reasons behind their continued underestimation.

Misconceptions Rooted in Stereotypes:

Comic books have long been associated with superheroes, caped crusaders, and juvenile storylines. This narrow stereotype has hindered the perception of comic books as sophisticated works of art. While superpowers and vibrant visuals undoubtedly play a role, comic books encompass a wide range of genres, covering themes of romance, science fiction, historical events, politics, and human psychology. They possess the power to tackle complex subjects with nuance and depth, inviting readers to contemplate complex moral dilemmas and explore the human condition.

Historical Baggage:

The historical context surrounding comic books has also contributed to their ongoing underestimation. Through the years, comics often faced censorship and were dismissed as trivial, leading to a lingering perception that they lack literary or intellectual value. This outdated view persists despite substantial advancements in storytelling techniques, mature narrative arcs, and thought-provoking themes found in modern comic book publications.

Limited Exposure:

Another factor that perpetuates the underrated status of comic books is the limited exposure they receive within educational institutions, academia, and mainstream cultural discourse. Traditional literature, novels, and plays typically take precedence in academic curricula, overshadowing the potential benefits of incorporating comic books into educational settings. Consequently, the absence of critical analysis and scholarly discussion surrounding comic books contributes to their underappreciation.

Cultural Preconceptions:

Comic books face an additional hurdle due to cultural prejudices that favor realism over fantastical storytelling. The notion that realistic narratives have more merit has often relegated comics to a lower status. In reality, the imaginative and artistic qualities of comics allow for unique storytelling experiences that challenge conventional boundaries. They tap into visual narratives, utilizing graphical representations that can evoke emotions and convey ideas in ways that traditional literature cannot.

Accessibility and Diversity:

Comic books have witnessed a surge in popularity in recent years, thanks to increased accessibility through digital platforms. However, despite growing recognition, the medium is still not as inclusive or representative as it could be. While strides have been made to include more diverse voices and perspectives in comics, the industry continues to grapple with diversity issues, limiting its ability to captivate a broader audience. Such limitations inadvertently contribute to the persistent undervaluation of comic books as a whole.

In 2023, comic books continue to be undervalued, unfairly relegated to the realms of triviality and dismissed as less significant than other storytelling mediums. The misconceptions rooted in stereotypes, alongside historical baggage, limited exposure, cultural preconceptions, and diversity issues, all contribute to the enduring undervaluation of this powerful art form.

To overcome these challenges, it is imperative that we continue to challenge our preconceived notions and foster an environment that allows for the recognition of comic books' extensive literary and artistic merits. Educators, scholars, and cultural gatekeepers must acknowledge the unique potential for storytelling that comic books offer. By doing so, we can finally lift the veil of underestimation that has obscured these narratives, allowing comic books to take their rightful place amongst our most celebrated and cherished forms of artistic expression.