Comics: A Brief History
Comic books are a unique form of literature with a rich history and devoted fan base. Since their creation in the late 1800s, comics have been a vital form of entertainment and a way to explore stories, characters and ideas.
Rise of the Comics
The first comic book, called The Adventures of Obadiah Oldbuck, was published in 1837 in Switzerland. The first modern comic book — Funnies on Parade — was released in the U.S. in 1933, ushering in a new era of comic books.
Golden Age of Comics
The “Golden Age of Comics” began in the mid-1930s and lasted until the 1950s, when publishers launched some of the most beloved comic book characters of all time. During this period, superheroes such as Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman were created, giving birth to the genre of superhero comics.
Silver Age Comics
During the “Silver Age of Comics” (from 1956 to about the early ‘70s), new genres started to arise. This period introduced horror, romance, western, and other non-superhero categories.
Modern Comic Books
In the late ’70s, the modern age of comic books began. This period explored more complex stories and ideas as well as updated artwork. Comics have since evolved to encompass different mediums, such as cartoons and movies, and have become even more popular with dedicated readers.
Conclusion
Today, comic books remain an incredibly popular form of entertainment. They offer a unique way to tell stories and explore characters, themes, and ideas in vivid and imaginative ways. Comics are a beloved way to escape the everyday and step into an exciting new world full of possibilities.
Key Takeaways:
- The first comic book was published in 1837 in Switzerland.
- The “Golden Age of Comics” began in the mid-1930s and brought us beloved superheroes like Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.
- The modern age of comic books started in the late ’70s and has since evolved to encompass different mediums, such as cartoons and movies.
- Comic books remain a popular form of entertainment and offer a unique way to explore characters, stories, and ideas in imaginative ways.
