Graphic Literature Meets Classic Fiction: Discerning the Visual Language of Pride and Prejudice and Fahrenheit 451

Abstract

Abstract Visual language has gained importance with the acceptance of graphic novels as a literary genre. Visual Language studies the interaction between words and images to convey meaning (Cohn 2013). The current research explores how visual elements in comics combine to convey a cohesive message in graphic novels, especially focusing on visual morphology, visual narrative structure, and visual lexicon. The research relies on theories of visual language by Cohn to analyze the graphic adaptations of Pride and Prejudice (1984) and Fahrenheit 451 (2009). It explores the role of fewer words and a different writing style used in graphic novels to convey meaning in visual narratives. Discerning visual language in graphic novels is expected to add to the human understanding of communicating and comprehending meaning through the interplay of words and images.

Keywords: Visual Language, Graphic Novel, Visual Morphology, Visual Lexicon, Visual Narrative Structure, Panels.

Highlights:

1. Visual Language (VL) in Graphic Novels
Visual language (VL) is defined as the system of communication that uses graphic elements to convey meaning, messages, and ideas. It studies the interaction between words and images and is considered an evolving language.  2. Graphic novels (GNs) are self-contained, book-length works that utilize a captivating fusion of illustrations, text, and layout to create a rich narrative experience. Cohn proposes that when systematic consecutive images adhere to structured rules, they tangibly manifest as visual languages.
Systematic Parts of Visual Language 3. Research relies on Cohn’s theories of VL, analyzing three systematic parts that serve as analytical categories: a. Visual Morphology: This involves investigating meaning-bearing units within the image. It refers to the rules used to convey meaning through visual design, including structural building blocks like line, shape, color, form, and angle.
b. Visual Narrative Structure: This relates to how visual elements, such as the arrangement of panels, combine systematically to form a cohesive message. Core categories in the narrative trajectory include Orienter, Establisher, Initiator, Prolongation, Peak, and Release.
c. Visual Lexicon: This includes symbolic elements holding a symbolic nature, such as emotion lines or circular stars showing dizziness. The most recognizable forms are "Carriers," which encapsulate text, like narrative captions, thought bubbles, and speech balloons.