Graphic Novels

I think that out of everything we had read for this week, the argument for incorporating graphic novels was the most compelling.

I think there is a HUGE grey area. Obviously, there are two arguments for this case. The first argument is the one made by the author and the one made by multiple classmates: graphic novels are essential. Through the pictures, they are much more relatable and enjoyable for the students and therefore the students are able to comprehend them better and remember them better. Yes, this all fine and dandy and I do think there is obviously truth behind it. And I also think it stays clear from the people who argue that school and education should not be fun because, let's be honest, no matter how many pictures there are, if the student doesn't care about the plot, etc. they are not going to find the novel fun.

The second argument is that we should stick to the classics. The classics are what is important to the classroom, in my opinion. Yes, Maus is EXTREMELY important and is an excellent read. However, I do not think there should be a split of classics and graphic novels. Classic novels serve the purpose of teaching us about the literary greats and examining what makes a piece of literature a masterpiece, whereas graphic novels do not hold the same esteem. Until we have The Graphic Gatsby, I think that we need to stick to limiting the number of graphic novels in the classroom.