The Comic Book Western: New Perspectives on a Global Genre

The Comic Book Western explores the global impact of Western comics, revealing how they became popular in different countries and how they addressed cultural and political issues. The essays in the collection show how Western comics influenced fascism, historical memory, manga, post-apocalypticism, race and identity, gender politics, manifest destiny, and gaucho nationalism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2022
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

The Western, a cultural phenomenon that has achieved global success, is often attributed to the widespread circulation of fiction, film, and television. However, a lesser-known aspect of this phenomenon is the significant role played by comics in the globalization of the Western. The Comic Book Western explores the impact of comics on the international success of Westerns, highlighting their role in shaping the genre's global appeal.

As readers worldwide embraced translations of American comic book Westerns, they were also captivated by local versions that achieved national or international acclaim. These essays delve into the unexpected cross-pollinations that allowed the Western to emerge from and speak to a diverse range of historical and cultural contexts. They examine the influence of Spanish and Italian fascism, Polish historical memory, the ideology of shōjo manga from Japan, British post-apocalypticism and the gothic, race and identity in Canada, Mexican gender politics, French critiques of manifest destiny, and gaucho nationalism in Argentina.

The vibrant themes uncovered in The Comic Book Western shed light on the complexity and aesthetic power of international comic book Westerns. These works are not mere hollow imitations but profound statements about identity, culture, and politics. They challenge traditional narratives and offer fresh perspectives on the Western genre, expanding its horizons and engaging readers from diverse backgrounds.

The Comic Book Western serves as a testament to the enduring influence of comics on popular culture and the global exchange of ideas. It highlights the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries and connect people across cultures, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and its diverse narratives. By exploring the intersections of comics, history, and culture, The Comic Book Western contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the role of visual media in shaping our understanding of the past and present.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496231642