Towards a semiotic analysis of comics illustrated by an analysis of post- colonial echoes in the comic Tintin in the Congo
Abstract
This article discusses the topic of (semiotic) analysis of the comics. It presents a brief methodology to serve as a guide for an analysis of comics.
The analysis is divided into four basic stages: 1 examination of the image, 2 examination of the text, 3 examination of the box, 4 examination of the box in the context of action. The text also discusses four key moments, which should be respected in the interest of the analysis. 1st: Defining the research objectives - a recommendation for a selective reduction of the theme, if circumstances permit. 2nd: Understanding comics - a requirement for a deeper understanding of the grammar of comics. 3rd: Knowledge back up? - a reminder that academic work must have, in addition to form, content that the author understands. 4th: Information retrieval - a recommendation to find additional information about the comics, such as the fate of the author or the mood in society at the time of the comics.
The second half of the text is a case study - an analysis of one of Europe's most famous comic books, Tintin in the Congo. The case study is based on an analysis of ethnocentrism and of the stereotypical portrayal of indigenous inhabitants of the Belgian Congo.
Four selected examples from the comics end with a short analytical summary.