In an essay of 5-6 pgs (1250-1500 words), apply the theories of “Understanding Comics” to the comic, “Watchmen”. In the process, explain the McCloud concepts you will be using and apply them to specific panels and events in the graphic novel. There is no specific number of concepts i expect, but I would aim for as many as you can reasonably prove in this length of a paper. (4-5 major concepts, most likely, along with minor ones along the way)

QUESTION

In an essay of 5-6 pgs (1250-1500 words), apply the theories of “Understanding Comics” to the comic, “Watchmen”. In the process, explain the McCloud concepts you will be using and apply them to specific panels and events in the graphic novel. There is no specific number of concepts i expect, but I would aim for as many as you can reasonably prove in this length of a paper. (4-5 major concepts, most likely, along with minor ones along the way)
Guidelines:
1. Your thesis in this paper will state clearly in what ways the comic does and does not illustrate the McCloud ideas.
2. Be sure to explain specifically what McCloud’s terms mean as you use them.
3. The more specific evidence from the comic you use, usually the better. I will cover in my video for class how I would like them cited.
4. Be sure to have a Bibliography with the two sources above listed, along with any others you may use.
5. Remember the late paper policy on the syllabus— if you turn in a draft of the paper by //// the paper becomes revisable for a higher grade
6. As always, spelling and grammar do count, so please proofread carefully.

LINKS FOR SOURCES:
Scott Mcloud- Understanding Comic
– http://93.174.95.29/main/AC76068A58B35B3E9ABD54948DFF4D8A
Aaron More, Watchmen
– http://93.174.95.29/main/21D370881648CF6897DB5577211EFDA7

ANSWER

Exploring the McCloud Concepts in “Watchmen”: An Analysis of Understanding Comics in Alan Moore’s Graphic Novel

Introduction

Alan Moore’s graphic novel “Watchmen” is a seminal work in the comic book industry, known for its complex narrative, intricate artwork, and thought-provoking themes. In this essay, I will apply the theories presented in Scott McCloud’s “Understanding Comics” to “Watchmen,” exploring how McCloud’s concepts enhance our understanding of the graphic novel. By analyzing specific panels and events, I will highlight the ways in which “Watchmen” both adheres to and deviates from McCloud’s theories. Through this analysis, we can gain valuable insights into Moore’s artistic and narrative techniques, as well as the unique storytelling capabilities of the comic medium.

Thesis

“Watchmen” effectively illustrates several of Scott McCloud’s concepts from “Understanding Comics,” such as closure, time frames, aspect-to-aspect transitions, and the combination of word and image. However, it also challenges some of McCloud’s ideas, particularly in terms of panel transitions and the complexity of its narrative structure.

Closure: The Power of the Gutter

One of the fundamental concepts in McCloud’s book is “closure,” which refers to the reader’s ability to mentally connect panel-to-panel gaps and construct a continuous narrative. “Watchmen” employs closure masterfully, inviting readers to actively participate in the story’s construction. For instance, in the opening pages, Moore uses a nine-panel grid to depict the murder of The Comedian. Through the careful arrangement of panels and the use of closure, readers piece together the sequence of events, amplifying the impact of the scene.

Time Frames: Manipulating the Flow of Time

McCloud’s concept of time frames explores how comics can manipulate time through the arrangement and juxtaposition of panels. “Watchmen” employs various techniques to control the flow of time. One notable example is the simultaneous depiction of multiple events in different time frames. In Chapter 4, as Dr. Manhattan recalls his origin story, Moore intertwines past, present, and future events within a single page. This non-linear representation of time underscores Dr. Manhattan’s unique perception while deepening the narrative complexity.

Aspect-to-Aspect Transitions: Expanding the Narrative Scope

Aspect-to-aspect transitions, as explained by McCloud, allow readers to explore different facets of a scene or concept. “Watchmen” employs this technique to enrich its storytelling. In Chapter 5, when Rorschach investigates the murder of a former villain, Moore employs aspect-to-aspect transitions to provide glimpses into the lives of other characters, expanding the narrative beyond Rorschach’s immediate actions. This technique enhances the world-building and adds depth to the characters, reinforcing the complexity of the story.

Word and Image: Symbiotic Storytelling

According to McCloud, the combination of words and images in comics creates a unique and powerful storytelling experience. “Watchmen” effectively utilizes this concept by blending text and visuals to convey mood, meaning, and character development. The recurring motif of the blood-stained smiley face throughout the narrative serves as a powerful visual symbol, while the accompanying text provides additional layers of interpretation. This interplay between word and image intensifies the thematic resonance of the graphic novel.

Challenging McCloud’s Ideas

While “Watchmen” exemplifies many of McCloud’s concepts, it also challenges some of his ideas. One area where “Watchmen” diverges from McCloud’s theories is in its unconventional panel transitions. Moore often employs unconventional panel layouts and transitions that disrupt the flow of time and challenge readers’ expectations. For instance, in Chapter 9, when Ozymandias reveals his grand plan of world peace, the panel transitions become fragmented, nonlinear, and disorienting. This deliberate deviation from traditional panel transitions enhances the narrative tension and reflects the shattered moral compass of the characters, subverting the reader’s expectations.

Furthermore, the complexity of “Watchmen’s” narrative structure challenges McCloud’s notion of clarity and simplicity in storytelling. The intricate plot, multiple subplots, and non-linear storytelling demand active engagement from the readers to piece together the fragmented narrative. While McCloud emphasizes the importance of simplicity and clarity in comic storytelling, “Watchmen” embraces complexity, inviting readers to delve deeper into its intricate layers of meaning.

Conclusion

In “Watchmen,” Alan Moore demonstrates a deep understanding of the comic medium, utilizing and subverting Scott McCloud’s concepts from “Understanding Comics” to create a rich and immersive narrative. The graphic novel effectively employs closure, time frames, aspect-to-aspect transitions, and the combination of word and image to enhance storytelling and engage readers. However, “Watchmen” also challenges McCloud’s ideas, particularly in terms of panel transitions and narrative complexity, highlighting the flexibility and potential for experimentation within the comic medium.

By analyzing “Watchmen” through the lens of McCloud’s theories, we gain a greater appreciation for the innovative techniques employed by Moore and the unique storytelling capabilities of comics. The blending of these two works allows us to deepen our understanding of the comic medium and recognize the artistic and narrative possibilities it offers. Ultimately, “Watchmen” stands as a testament to the power of comics to convey complex themes and narratives, transcending traditional boundaries and reshaping the landscape of graphic storytelling.

References 

McCloud, Scott. Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art. Harper Perennial, 1994.

Moore, Alan. Watchmen. DC Comics, 1986.