Shakespeare and contemporary adaptation: the graphic novel

Roper, Margaret Mary (2013). Shakespeare and contemporary adaptation: the graphic novel. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the process of adaptation of Shakespeare’s plays into the graphic novel medium. It traces the history of these adaptations from the first comic books produced in the mid-twentieth century to graphic novels produced in the twenty-first century. The editions used for examination have been selected as they are indicative of key developments in the history of adaptation of Shakespeare’s plays into the medium. This thesis explores how the plays are presented and the influences on the styles of presentation. It traces the history of the form and how the adaptations have been received in various periods. It also examines how the combination of illustrations and text and the conventions of the medium produce unique narrative capacities, how these have developed over time and how they used to present the plays. Sales data of Shakespeare graphic novels is presented and analysed to reveal the target audience is the education sector which in turn drives the publisher’s promotion of the authenticity and fidelity of their editions. How authenticity is claimed and invoked in the adaptation into graphic novels is also examined.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):