Watchmen - Annotated Resources
Managing Editor: Alex Hopkins
Watchmen, one of the most well known comics that came out of the late 80’s, has been both criticized and applauded by comic readers and critics everywhere. This interesting story of “masked vigilantes” has been read by millions and has even been turned into a movie. It’s interesting plot, twists and turns, and even the images create a world you can lose yourself in. Watchmen keeps you wondering what’s going on and what’s going to happen throughout every chapter, and the ending is mind-blowing! Though some people discredit this well known comic, there will always be readers swept up in the story and comic-lovers everywhere that will never get enough of the adventures of the "Watchmen." Below are articles that have been written about the comic that will provide insight on this popular tale and, hopefully, persuade you to take a look at Watchmen for yourself.
Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons on WATCHMEN. Interview by Rick Green (2009). Google Video retrieved from <http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4818608956581207454#>.
In this interview Moore and Gibbons talk about the inspiration behind the creation of Watchmen as well as the evolution of the characters and the story. Discussed also are the technical and stylistic things involved in the process, including why they decided to use the 9 panel grid. They talk frankly about the use of symbols to evoke emotions as well as the subliminal effect of repeated shapes and symbols.
This video is 30 minutes long and well worth the investment of time as it provides background and further insights that help to deepen ones appreciation and understanding of Watchmen. Should be required viewing for comics newbies who are trying to understand Watchmen.
Baetens, Jan. "Graphic Novels: Literature Without Text." English Language Notes 46.2 (2008): 77-88.
Jan Baetens article “Graphic Novels: Literature without Text,” discusses the literary quality of graphic novels. This article presents both sides of the argument of whether graphic novels can be considered literature. Baetens also discuss how graphic novels have expanded the “novelistic field.”
This article is useful to anyone interest in graphic novels to help give insight to the literary qualities of graphic novels. It may also be useful to teachers who wish to include graphic novels in their curriculum as it provides support for the argument of graphic novels as literature.
Baird, Zahra. "Got Graphic Novels? More Than Just Superheroes in Tights!" Children and Libraries: The Journal Association for Library Service to Children 5.1 (2007) 4-7. Print.
Baird discusses the growing popularity with graphic novels in this article. Baird backs up the idea that, "graphic novels use both words and pictures to appeal to readers of all ages; as the popularity of this format has grown, so had the genre's value, literary prowess, and role as a pathway to literacy".
This article proves helpful in providing a basic understanding of why graphic novels have become essential to the literary world. Different genres and themes are listed, as well as a guideline on how to choose a graphic novel for yourself or classroom.
Baker, Hunter. “’Watchmen’ Graphic Novel Is As Good As They Say.” The American Culture. Stkarnick.com. Web. 3 June 2011.
Baker discusses the well known graphic novel, Watchmen, and explains why he believes the novel is such a great piece of literature as well as a different take on comics. He talks openly about his love for comics, but when he was younger he craved a new type of hero story. When he picked up Watchmen, he was hooked. He discusses the edginess that Watchmen brings to comics along with his favorite character, Rorschach, and also touches on some of the other characters and their importance in the story.
This article would be most useful for readers and scholars of comics because it discusses the elements and characters of Watchmen and provides insight and feedback on how the comic is viewed publically. It also appeals to the masses and evokes interest in the comic itself, providing more advertisement for this much beloved graphic novel.
Barnes, D. " Time in the Gutter: Temporal Structures in Watchmen.." Kronoscope 9.1/2 (2009): 51-60. Web. 24 Jun 2011. <http://web.ebscohost.com.easydb.angelo.edu/ehost/detail?sid=460507fc-c772-45b4-9b3a-7521fef93a47%40sessionmgr10&vid=1&hid=25&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=51099904>.
This article focuses on Jon Osterman (Dr. Manhattan) in Watchmen and his different attitudes that he shows throughout the novel, these attitudes are depicted through many different frames of space and time. The author also goes deeper into Jon’s psychological issues and talks about his psychological consciousness or lack thereof.
This article can be helpful to readers who read the graphic novel, Watchmen, but do not really get a sense of Jon. Jon is seen to be very emotionless but his lack of emotion can be seen as he doesn’t care sense he isn’t human. This article breaks down ideas like that, this can advance the reader’s insight into their reading.
Behler, Anne. "Getting Started with Graphic Novels." Reference User Services Quarterly 46.2 (2006): 16-24. Print.
This article by Anne Behler, develops a basic, beginner's understanding on how the genre developed, who it appeals to, and a starting point on how to develop a graphic novel collection. Behler provides a list of suggested graphic novel and also background resource information titles. Behler states that the sophistication from graphic noels "reaches out to the education committee catering to young people's growing affinity for the visual rather than written media".
This article would prove most useful to teachers debating the study of this genre. Behler provides examples of good reads and also background reads on the genre. There is also a useful breakdown of the genre that a teacher would greatly appreciate and find useful.
Besel, Jennifer. The Captivating, Creative, Unusual History of Comic Books. Mankato, MN: Capstone Press, 2010. 48. Print.
This book does numerous things. It details the origins, innovations, controversy and culture that surround comics we know today. A thorough description of the history and some strange facts you may of not know about once unpopular books we know now as graphic novels.
Besel introduces rich information and history that helps readers gain more information about the comics that are sometimes hard to understand.
Botzakis, Stergios. "Adult Fans of Comics Books: What They Get Out of Reading." Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy 53.1 (2009): 50-59.
In the article “Adult Fans of Comic Books,” Botzakis discusses what draws many adults to graphic novels and comic books. The article follows four adult males and discusses why they are drawn to graphic novels. While one participant is drawn to them for academic reasons, another is draw for entertainment purposes.
While the article is geared towards educators to inform them of the shifts in popular culture, it can also be used by writers and publishers of graphic novels and comic books. It will help them understand their audiences and give them insight on how to market to them
Campbell, Eddie. "What is a Graphic Novel?" World Literature Today 81.2 (2007): 13. Print.
In this brief article by Eddie Campbell, the author quickly explains four ways the term graphic novel is being used: one used as a synonym for comic books, two to classify a format, three to represent a comic book narrative that is equivalent in form and dimensions to the prose novel, and fourth to indicate a form that is more than a comic book. Campbell discusses confusion and goals on defining the term, graphic novel.
This article could be beneficial to those who are new to comics, graphic novels, etc. It provides an insight to the complexity of the genre itself.
Carter, James Bucky. “Teaching Watchmen in the Wake of 9/11.” Teaching the Graphic Novel . Ed. Stephen E. Tabachnick. New York: The Modern Language Association of America, 2009. 99-108. Print.
In this article, Carter discusses the similarity between Veidt’s surprise attack on America and the World Trade Center attacks. He felt that it was important to incorporate the world-changing event of 9/11 in his curriculum because of the huge impact it had on our lives. With the passion and importance in this topic, he co-mingled the similarities of Watchmen with 9/11 to provide new insight and means to grapple with and understand the text.
This article would be helpful for teachers because it explains how to teach graphic novels and it is written by a teacher for teachers. As a professor who teaches graphic novels, Carter expresses his views on Watchmen and discusses different ways to get students to connect to the graphic novel.
Eisner, Will. Graphic storytelling. Tamarac, FL: Poorhouse Pr, 1996. 164. Print.
This books distills the art of graphic storytelling into principles that every comic artist, writer, and filmmaker should know. Eisner displays understanding on basic concepts that tied together make the sequential art we have come to know today in graphic novels. This is the instructional anatomy book about comics your local convenience store never showed you.
This book can help students, teachers and connoisseurs understand the basic principles involved in completing the very structured and methodological anatomy of comic books turned novel. This book is very rich in information and can be used by the masses for years to come to define the basic understanding of a comic book and its contents.
Fishbaugh, B. "Moore and Gibbons's Watchmen: Exact Personifications of Science." Extrapolation 39.3 (1998): 189-198. Web. 24 Jun 2011. http://web.ebscohost.com.easydb.angelo.edu/ehost/detail?sid=1859a38c-7906-4ce3-ab16-acd83136ad05%40sessionmgr14&vid=1&hid=25&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=1167173
Within this article, Fishbaugh takes Watchmen and examines the different characteristics it has within the science fiction genre. He also gives background on the authors (Moore and Gibbons) and background on the novel itself. Lastly, he breaks down the actual characters of the novel and lists characteristics that are helpful to understanding the character.
This article would be beneficial to any reader of Watchmen because it begins to analyze the novel, the characters and the authors of the novel as well. This information could give the reader a helpful insight to what to expect before reading Watchmen, to items they do not understand while reading Watchmen and to sum some particular items up that are not exactly clear.
Griffith, Paula. "Graphic Novels in the Secondary Classroom and School Libraries." Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy 54.3 (2010): 181-189.
In the article “Graphic Novels in the Secondary Classroom and School Libraries,” Griffith discusses how graphic novels can be included in secondary education. It discusses the new found popularity of graphic novels. It also discusses how graphic novels are evaluated when their value as literature is called into question.
This article can be useful to educators and librarians when they are considering including graphic novels in the curriculum and school libraries. The article discusses the readability and how to judge the age appropriateness of graphic novels. It also provides criteria for evaluating graphic novels as literature.
Hughes, Jamie A. '"Who Watches the Watchmen?': Idelogy and 'Real World' Superheroes." Journal of Popular Culture 39.4 2006. Print.
Creation of superheroes called “The Minutemen” is caught up in the ideology of being a superhero. These include “money, power, and fame” (Hughes, 548). This is expressed through their choice of costume and desires to fight crime. The ideology shifts when the “Watchmen” generation comes into action.
The public who would enjoy reading this resource is the Golden Age/Silver Age comic book scholars who want a change and explanation for this transformation of superheroes that Watchmen depicts through an alter in ideology and the understanding of “superhero.”
Kuskin, William. "Continuity in Literary Form and History." English Language Notes 46.2 (2008): 5-13. Print.
This article discusses in depth arguments of contemporary criticism of comic books and graphic novels. Kuskin explains that the basis of most criticism focuses on three different aspects: one that this art form is claimed to have originated in the early 19th century, two this medium is best read structurally, third that it makes up a new medium altogether. Kuskin addresses what makes up a graphic novel, referencing authors like Scott McCloud. Structural layout, details, and forms are also discussed.
This article would be essential to anyone attempting to fully understand how to read and analyze a graphic novel or comic. With examples and quotes from various graphic novelists and experts, this article proves to be an advanced technical side to the graphic novel art form.
Leckbee, Jodi. "I Got Graphic!" Young Adult Library Services 3.4 (2005): 30-31. Print.
This is an article written by a teacher explaining how she discovered the power of using graphic novels in the classroom. Leckbee states that graphic novels don' replace but actually enhance the learning of literary analysis for students. She used Maus by Art Spiegelman as a topic for discussion after teaching it in her classroom.
This article could be resourceful in explaining why graphic novels should be recognized in how they can be used to engage students and inspire learning.
Moore, Alan. “Alan Moore Talks - 02 - Watchmen.” You Tube. n.p. 2007. Web. 25 June 2011.
(Segment from Comics Brittania . Originally aired September of 2007 on BBC4, in Great Britain. Segment from Comics Brittania. Executive Producer – Michael Poole.)
In part 2 of Comics Britannia’s interview with Alan Moore, Moore talks about elements of Watchmen’s conception. Topics discussed include, the idea of super heroes in reality, the representation of world power through characters in Watchmen, and the relationship between the character Rorschach and the Batman archetype of a superhero. Moore goes into further detail on the character development of Rorschach and his role as the main protagonist of the story, as well as the psychology behind Rorschach’s motivations.
For comic book researchers, this interview gives an explanation of the main commentary in Watchmen, including a from-the-source perspective on one of the main characters. Also, the video segment ends with a reading of Watchmen by Alan Moore who uses his version of Rorschach’s voice to narrate, giving a detailed account of the original intentions of his work.
Mouly, Francoise. "Visual Literacy." Children and Libraries: The Journal of the Association for Library Services to Children 9.1 (2011): 12-14. Print.
This article provides a current overview of the rising interest of graphic novels in 2011. In Mauly's opinion, "the increasing acceptance of comics under the semblance of graphic novels in museums, schools, libraries, and universities is an echo of huge acceptance that greeted the first newspaper comics during the early 1900's". Mouly discusses how comics aimed at young readers aid in the development of a lifelong love of reading.
This article would be useful for teachers of young students or students that dislike reading. It explains simple reasons why graphic novels and comics spark new interest in readers, students, and young children.
Phillips, Dan. “The Tem Most Memorable Moments of Watchmen.” Comics.ign.com. Web. 13 June 2011.
Phillips takes us in for a closer look at the ten most memorable moments of Watchmen. He calls them the best and most shocking moments in the graphic novel. He breaks the moments down from number ten to number one and discusses each moment at length. He also deems Watchmen to be the greatest comic book of all time.
This article, I believe, could be helpful to readers, teachers, and scholars of comics. These moments that Phillips discusses are not just most memorable because of the action or gore, but because of the profound effect that they have on the graphic novel. They reiterate the ground-breaking movements Moore and Gibbons created for comics.
Smith, Greg M. "Comic Arts Confrence at the San Diego Comic-Con." Cinema Journal 49.3 Spring 2010. Print.
Comic Arts Conference (CAC) depicts how movies have recently made comics “cool.” Because of this break through the use of comics on the academic level has been hindered. The main attraction of CAC isn’t just to indulge with fellow comic geeks but to learn how comics are created and the significance behind their creation.
Many audiences can aspire to CAC, not only comic geeks but scholars, future comic creators, and film makers as well. This resource is useful for all people on both an academic and creative level who think comics are “cool” and want to gain more knowledge.
Szabo, Erika. “An Analysis of Watchmen: Symmetry and the Tragic Flaw.” DestroyThe Cyb.org. Web. 10 June 2011.
Szabo explains Moore and Gibbons’ use of symmetry in Watchmen and how this symmetry suggests a pattern and a meaning in the graphic novel. She gives many examples of symmetry and reflections throughout the book. She suggests looking at other recommended blogs and articles that give more insight into Watchmen as well.
This resource would help a reader because the article explains panel set up and small details that first time, probably even second or third time, readers wouldn’t catch. She gives many specific examples of symmetry and goes into in-depth analysis of how this contributes or can take away from the graphic novel and unlocks key information in how to read this book.
Tabachnick, Stephen E. "The Graphic Novel and the Age of Transition: A Survey and Analysis." English Literature in Transition. ELT Press, 1880-1920. 3-28.
This text mainly explains the adaptations and transitions of comics and graphic novels, as well as how they differentiate from one another. Graphic novels, as stated in the text usually attract a more mature audience with a more serious taste in content, as well as a lengthier version of a story-line, but comics and graphic novels are equally as useful in illustrating literature.
This resource could be helpful when teaching the role, in history, that comics and graphic novels have played in years past. It is mentioned in the text that “Robert Louis Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is another visually oriented text that automatically lends itself to graphic novels.” I found this to be an interesting interpretation and good material for those interested in learning more about the adaptations and transitions of graphic novels.
The Mindscape of Alan Moore. Dir. Dez Vylenz. Shadowsnake Films, 2003. DVD.
The mindscape of Alan Moore is an in depth presentation of the origins and inner workings of one of the most prolific graphic novel writers in history. Moore discusses how he began to write comics with commentary on his earlier works of V for Vendetta and Watchmen. He then talks about magic and art as a shaping force in the world, with the magician acting as a godlike power; using the divinity within oneself to incite the divinity in others. Moore presents his own ideological and theological thinking through an intelligent narrative combined with a surreal mixture of realistic, symbolic and psychedelic imagery.
This is an important resource for anyone studying any work of Alan Moore. The philosophical topics discussed in the film can be found buried deep within each and every one of his writings. The major themes in his books are discussed in great detail from the origin of their conception, making this film crucial for research and analysis of a major piece of the graphic novel universe.
“Watchmen (Comic).” The Inquisitive Loon. Theinquisitiveloon.blogspot.com. April 8, 2011. Web. 6 June 2011.
This article, written by a comic blogger called The Inquisitive Loon, gives deep insight and analysis on the events and actions that take place in Watchmen as well as the deep characterization that Moore creates within his "heroes." The Inquisitive Loon also challenges blog readers to check out the graphic novel and discover the complex world of Watchmen themselves.
This article, I believe, is geared more towards readers of comics. It is highly informative and teaches the reader to look more closely at the characters and the story line to see the subtleties they probably missed before. Because of this, the article would probably be helpful to comic scholars as well.
Weiner, Stephen. Faster than a speeding bullet: the rise of the graphic novel. Nbm Pub Co, 2003. 64. Print.
This book explores the history and criticism of comic books. A creative work describing the basic knowledge detailed in comic books and strips. Wiener and Eisner together describe the break though into culture comics had and the impact they had on pop culture. This book helps make those understand the industry of comics.
This book would be beneficial for those wanting to gain a better understanding to the industry of comics and how they affected cultures blooming in the late 80’s. The broad term of comics has been defined here. This book almost serves as an answer to the culture defining comics to this day.
http://www.denofgeek.com/comics/59800/interview_dave_gibbons_talks_watchmen_and_more.html
In this casual interview, Dave Gibbons explains his views on the Watchmen feature film, his opinions on Alan Moore’s exclusion from the credits, his impact on comic books as a whole, his thoughts on Marvel Comics, his work on
video games, and his future as an author and artist.
Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons on WATCHMEN. Interview by Rick Green (2009). Google Video retrieved from <http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4818608956581207454#>.
In this interview Moore and Gibbons talk about the inspiration behind the creation of Watchmen as well as the evolution of the characters and the story. Discussed also are the technical and stylistic things involved in the process, including why they decided to use the 9 panel grid. They talk frankly about the use of symbols to evoke emotions as well as the subliminal effect of repeated shapes and symbols.
This video is 30 minutes long and well worth the investment of time as it provides background and further insights that help to deepen ones appreciation and understanding of Watchmen. Should be required viewing for comics newbies who are trying to understand Watchmen.
Baetens, Jan. "Graphic Novels: Literature Without Text." English Language Notes 46.2 (2008): 77-88.
Jan Baetens article “Graphic Novels: Literature without Text,” discusses the literary quality of graphic novels. This article presents both sides of the argument of whether graphic novels can be considered literature. Baetens also discuss how graphic novels have expanded the “novelistic field.”
This article is useful to anyone interest in graphic novels to help give insight to the literary qualities of graphic novels. It may also be useful to teachers who wish to include graphic novels in their curriculum as it provides support for the argument of graphic novels as literature.
Baird, Zahra. "Got Graphic Novels? More Than Just Superheroes in Tights!" Children and Libraries: The Journal Association for Library Service to Children 5.1 (2007) 4-7. Print.
Baird discusses the growing popularity with graphic novels in this article. Baird backs up the idea that, "graphic novels use both words and pictures to appeal to readers of all ages; as the popularity of this format has grown, so had the genre's value, literary prowess, and role as a pathway to literacy".
This article proves helpful in providing a basic understanding of why graphic novels have become essential to the literary world. Different genres and themes are listed, as well as a guideline on how to choose a graphic novel for yourself or classroom.
Baker, Hunter. “’Watchmen’ Graphic Novel Is As Good As They Say.” The American Culture. Stkarnick.com. Web. 3 June 2011.
Baker discusses the well known graphic novel, Watchmen, and explains why he believes the novel is such a great piece of literature as well as a different take on comics. He talks openly about his love for comics, but when he was younger he craved a new type of hero story. When he picked up Watchmen, he was hooked. He discusses the edginess that Watchmen brings to comics along with his favorite character, Rorschach, and also touches on some of the other characters and their importance in the story.
This article would be most useful for readers and scholars of comics because it discusses the elements and characters of Watchmen and provides insight and feedback on how the comic is viewed publically. It also appeals to the masses and evokes interest in the comic itself, providing more advertisement for this much beloved graphic novel.
Barnes, D. " Time in the Gutter: Temporal Structures in Watchmen.." Kronoscope 9.1/2 (2009): 51-60. Web. 24 Jun 2011. <http://web.ebscohost.com.easydb.angelo.edu/ehost/detail?sid=460507fc-c772-45b4-9b3a-7521fef93a47%40sessionmgr10&vid=1&hid=25&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=51099904>.
This article focuses on Jon Osterman (Dr. Manhattan) in Watchmen and his different attitudes that he shows throughout the novel, these attitudes are depicted through many different frames of space and time. The author also goes deeper into Jon’s psychological issues and talks about his psychological consciousness or lack thereof.
This article can be helpful to readers who read the graphic novel, Watchmen, but do not really get a sense of Jon. Jon is seen to be very emotionless but his lack of emotion can be seen as he doesn’t care sense he isn’t human. This article breaks down ideas like that, this can advance the reader’s insight into their reading.
Behler, Anne. "Getting Started with Graphic Novels." Reference User Services Quarterly 46.2 (2006): 16-24. Print.
This article by Anne Behler, develops a basic, beginner's understanding on how the genre developed, who it appeals to, and a starting point on how to develop a graphic novel collection. Behler provides a list of suggested graphic novel and also background resource information titles. Behler states that the sophistication from graphic noels "reaches out to the education committee catering to young people's growing affinity for the visual rather than written media".
This article would prove most useful to teachers debating the study of this genre. Behler provides examples of good reads and also background reads on the genre. There is also a useful breakdown of the genre that a teacher would greatly appreciate and find useful.
Besel, Jennifer. The Captivating, Creative, Unusual History of Comic Books. Mankato, MN: Capstone Press, 2010. 48. Print.
This book does numerous things. It details the origins, innovations, controversy and culture that surround comics we know today. A thorough description of the history and some strange facts you may of not know about once unpopular books we know now as graphic novels.
Besel introduces rich information and history that helps readers gain more information about the comics that are sometimes hard to understand.
Botzakis, Stergios. "Adult Fans of Comics Books: What They Get Out of Reading." Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy 53.1 (2009): 50-59.
In the article “Adult Fans of Comic Books,” Botzakis discusses what draws many adults to graphic novels and comic books. The article follows four adult males and discusses why they are drawn to graphic novels. While one participant is drawn to them for academic reasons, another is draw for entertainment purposes.
While the article is geared towards educators to inform them of the shifts in popular culture, it can also be used by writers and publishers of graphic novels and comic books. It will help them understand their audiences and give them insight on how to market to them
Campbell, Eddie. "What is a Graphic Novel?" World Literature Today 81.2 (2007): 13. Print.
In this brief article by Eddie Campbell, the author quickly explains four ways the term graphic novel is being used: one used as a synonym for comic books, two to classify a format, three to represent a comic book narrative that is equivalent in form and dimensions to the prose novel, and fourth to indicate a form that is more than a comic book. Campbell discusses confusion and goals on defining the term, graphic novel.
This article could be beneficial to those who are new to comics, graphic novels, etc. It provides an insight to the complexity of the genre itself.
Carter, James Bucky. “Teaching Watchmen in the Wake of 9/11.” Teaching the Graphic Novel . Ed. Stephen E. Tabachnick. New York: The Modern Language Association of America, 2009. 99-108. Print.
In this article, Carter discusses the similarity between Veidt’s surprise attack on America and the World Trade Center attacks. He felt that it was important to incorporate the world-changing event of 9/11 in his curriculum because of the huge impact it had on our lives. With the passion and importance in this topic, he co-mingled the similarities of Watchmen with 9/11 to provide new insight and means to grapple with and understand the text.
This article would be helpful for teachers because it explains how to teach graphic novels and it is written by a teacher for teachers. As a professor who teaches graphic novels, Carter expresses his views on Watchmen and discusses different ways to get students to connect to the graphic novel.
Eisner, Will. Graphic storytelling. Tamarac, FL: Poorhouse Pr, 1996. 164. Print.
This books distills the art of graphic storytelling into principles that every comic artist, writer, and filmmaker should know. Eisner displays understanding on basic concepts that tied together make the sequential art we have come to know today in graphic novels. This is the instructional anatomy book about comics your local convenience store never showed you.
This book can help students, teachers and connoisseurs understand the basic principles involved in completing the very structured and methodological anatomy of comic books turned novel. This book is very rich in information and can be used by the masses for years to come to define the basic understanding of a comic book and its contents.
Fishbaugh, B. "Moore and Gibbons's Watchmen: Exact Personifications of Science." Extrapolation 39.3 (1998): 189-198. Web. 24 Jun 2011. http://web.ebscohost.com.easydb.angelo.edu/ehost/detail?sid=1859a38c-7906-4ce3-ab16-acd83136ad05%40sessionmgr14&vid=1&hid=25&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=1167173
Within this article, Fishbaugh takes Watchmen and examines the different characteristics it has within the science fiction genre. He also gives background on the authors (Moore and Gibbons) and background on the novel itself. Lastly, he breaks down the actual characters of the novel and lists characteristics that are helpful to understanding the character.
This article would be beneficial to any reader of Watchmen because it begins to analyze the novel, the characters and the authors of the novel as well. This information could give the reader a helpful insight to what to expect before reading Watchmen, to items they do not understand while reading Watchmen and to sum some particular items up that are not exactly clear.
Griffith, Paula. "Graphic Novels in the Secondary Classroom and School Libraries." Journal of Adolescent and Adult Literacy 54.3 (2010): 181-189.
In the article “Graphic Novels in the Secondary Classroom and School Libraries,” Griffith discusses how graphic novels can be included in secondary education. It discusses the new found popularity of graphic novels. It also discusses how graphic novels are evaluated when their value as literature is called into question.
This article can be useful to educators and librarians when they are considering including graphic novels in the curriculum and school libraries. The article discusses the readability and how to judge the age appropriateness of graphic novels. It also provides criteria for evaluating graphic novels as literature.
Hughes, Jamie A. '"Who Watches the Watchmen?': Idelogy and 'Real World' Superheroes." Journal of Popular Culture 39.4 2006. Print.
Creation of superheroes called “The Minutemen” is caught up in the ideology of being a superhero. These include “money, power, and fame” (Hughes, 548). This is expressed through their choice of costume and desires to fight crime. The ideology shifts when the “Watchmen” generation comes into action.
The public who would enjoy reading this resource is the Golden Age/Silver Age comic book scholars who want a change and explanation for this transformation of superheroes that Watchmen depicts through an alter in ideology and the understanding of “superhero.”
Kuskin, William. "Continuity in Literary Form and History." English Language Notes 46.2 (2008): 5-13. Print.
This article discusses in depth arguments of contemporary criticism of comic books and graphic novels. Kuskin explains that the basis of most criticism focuses on three different aspects: one that this art form is claimed to have originated in the early 19th century, two this medium is best read structurally, third that it makes up a new medium altogether. Kuskin addresses what makes up a graphic novel, referencing authors like Scott McCloud. Structural layout, details, and forms are also discussed.
This article would be essential to anyone attempting to fully understand how to read and analyze a graphic novel or comic. With examples and quotes from various graphic novelists and experts, this article proves to be an advanced technical side to the graphic novel art form.
Leckbee, Jodi. "I Got Graphic!" Young Adult Library Services 3.4 (2005): 30-31. Print.
This is an article written by a teacher explaining how she discovered the power of using graphic novels in the classroom. Leckbee states that graphic novels don' replace but actually enhance the learning of literary analysis for students. She used Maus by Art Spiegelman as a topic for discussion after teaching it in her classroom.
This article could be resourceful in explaining why graphic novels should be recognized in how they can be used to engage students and inspire learning.
Moore, Alan. “Alan Moore Talks - 02 - Watchmen.” You Tube. n.p. 2007. Web. 25 June 2011.
(Segment from Comics Brittania . Originally aired September of 2007 on BBC4, in Great Britain. Segment from Comics Brittania. Executive Producer – Michael Poole.)
In part 2 of Comics Britannia’s interview with Alan Moore, Moore talks about elements of Watchmen’s conception. Topics discussed include, the idea of super heroes in reality, the representation of world power through characters in Watchmen, and the relationship between the character Rorschach and the Batman archetype of a superhero. Moore goes into further detail on the character development of Rorschach and his role as the main protagonist of the story, as well as the psychology behind Rorschach’s motivations.
For comic book researchers, this interview gives an explanation of the main commentary in Watchmen, including a from-the-source perspective on one of the main characters. Also, the video segment ends with a reading of Watchmen by Alan Moore who uses his version of Rorschach’s voice to narrate, giving a detailed account of the original intentions of his work.
Mouly, Francoise. "Visual Literacy." Children and Libraries: The Journal of the Association for Library Services to Children 9.1 (2011): 12-14. Print.
This article provides a current overview of the rising interest of graphic novels in 2011. In Mauly's opinion, "the increasing acceptance of comics under the semblance of graphic novels in museums, schools, libraries, and universities is an echo of huge acceptance that greeted the first newspaper comics during the early 1900's". Mouly discusses how comics aimed at young readers aid in the development of a lifelong love of reading.
This article would be useful for teachers of young students or students that dislike reading. It explains simple reasons why graphic novels and comics spark new interest in readers, students, and young children.
Phillips, Dan. “The Tem Most Memorable Moments of Watchmen.” Comics.ign.com. Web. 13 June 2011.
Phillips takes us in for a closer look at the ten most memorable moments of Watchmen. He calls them the best and most shocking moments in the graphic novel. He breaks the moments down from number ten to number one and discusses each moment at length. He also deems Watchmen to be the greatest comic book of all time.
This article, I believe, could be helpful to readers, teachers, and scholars of comics. These moments that Phillips discusses are not just most memorable because of the action or gore, but because of the profound effect that they have on the graphic novel. They reiterate the ground-breaking movements Moore and Gibbons created for comics.
Smith, Greg M. "Comic Arts Confrence at the San Diego Comic-Con." Cinema Journal 49.3 Spring 2010. Print.
Comic Arts Conference (CAC) depicts how movies have recently made comics “cool.” Because of this break through the use of comics on the academic level has been hindered. The main attraction of CAC isn’t just to indulge with fellow comic geeks but to learn how comics are created and the significance behind their creation.
Many audiences can aspire to CAC, not only comic geeks but scholars, future comic creators, and film makers as well. This resource is useful for all people on both an academic and creative level who think comics are “cool” and want to gain more knowledge.
Szabo, Erika. “An Analysis of Watchmen: Symmetry and the Tragic Flaw.” DestroyThe Cyb.org. Web. 10 June 2011.
Szabo explains Moore and Gibbons’ use of symmetry in Watchmen and how this symmetry suggests a pattern and a meaning in the graphic novel. She gives many examples of symmetry and reflections throughout the book. She suggests looking at other recommended blogs and articles that give more insight into Watchmen as well.
This resource would help a reader because the article explains panel set up and small details that first time, probably even second or third time, readers wouldn’t catch. She gives many specific examples of symmetry and goes into in-depth analysis of how this contributes or can take away from the graphic novel and unlocks key information in how to read this book.
Tabachnick, Stephen E. "The Graphic Novel and the Age of Transition: A Survey and Analysis." English Literature in Transition. ELT Press, 1880-1920. 3-28.
This text mainly explains the adaptations and transitions of comics and graphic novels, as well as how they differentiate from one another. Graphic novels, as stated in the text usually attract a more mature audience with a more serious taste in content, as well as a lengthier version of a story-line, but comics and graphic novels are equally as useful in illustrating literature.
This resource could be helpful when teaching the role, in history, that comics and graphic novels have played in years past. It is mentioned in the text that “Robert Louis Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is another visually oriented text that automatically lends itself to graphic novels.” I found this to be an interesting interpretation and good material for those interested in learning more about the adaptations and transitions of graphic novels.
The Mindscape of Alan Moore. Dir. Dez Vylenz. Shadowsnake Films, 2003. DVD.
The mindscape of Alan Moore is an in depth presentation of the origins and inner workings of one of the most prolific graphic novel writers in history. Moore discusses how he began to write comics with commentary on his earlier works of V for Vendetta and Watchmen. He then talks about magic and art as a shaping force in the world, with the magician acting as a godlike power; using the divinity within oneself to incite the divinity in others. Moore presents his own ideological and theological thinking through an intelligent narrative combined with a surreal mixture of realistic, symbolic and psychedelic imagery.
This is an important resource for anyone studying any work of Alan Moore. The philosophical topics discussed in the film can be found buried deep within each and every one of his writings. The major themes in his books are discussed in great detail from the origin of their conception, making this film crucial for research and analysis of a major piece of the graphic novel universe.
“Watchmen (Comic).” The Inquisitive Loon. Theinquisitiveloon.blogspot.com. April 8, 2011. Web. 6 June 2011.
This article, written by a comic blogger called The Inquisitive Loon, gives deep insight and analysis on the events and actions that take place in Watchmen as well as the deep characterization that Moore creates within his "heroes." The Inquisitive Loon also challenges blog readers to check out the graphic novel and discover the complex world of Watchmen themselves.
This article, I believe, is geared more towards readers of comics. It is highly informative and teaches the reader to look more closely at the characters and the story line to see the subtleties they probably missed before. Because of this, the article would probably be helpful to comic scholars as well.
Weiner, Stephen. Faster than a speeding bullet: the rise of the graphic novel. Nbm Pub Co, 2003. 64. Print.
This book explores the history and criticism of comic books. A creative work describing the basic knowledge detailed in comic books and strips. Wiener and Eisner together describe the break though into culture comics had and the impact they had on pop culture. This book helps make those understand the industry of comics.
This book would be beneficial for those wanting to gain a better understanding to the industry of comics and how they affected cultures blooming in the late 80’s. The broad term of comics has been defined here. This book almost serves as an answer to the culture defining comics to this day.
http://www.denofgeek.com/comics/59800/interview_dave_gibbons_talks_watchmen_and_more.html
In this casual interview, Dave Gibbons explains his views on the Watchmen feature film, his opinions on Alan Moore’s exclusion from the credits, his impact on comic books as a whole, his thoughts on Marvel Comics, his work on
video games, and his future as an author and artist.
