This module introduces students to the ‘graphic memoir’ (or autobiographical comic book) genre, which, over the past 40 years, has become an increasingly popular way of telling personal stories of considerable complexity and depth. Drawing on concepts from several disciplines, including linguistics, semiotics, multimodality, and literary and narrative theory, the module considers works that cover a broad range of subject matters and employ many different artistic styles. The focus is on the unique formal features and main narrative themes of graphic memoirs. We analyse how meaning is made through complex interactions between several semiotic resources, including words, images, colour, layout, and typography. Students are also taught to do close readings of texts, examining their formal features and locating them in their social, historical and literary contexts. They also have the option of creating their own short graphic memoir as part of the final assessment.

1. identify and interpret the generic forms and functions of the graphic memoir, including words and images, sequence and layout, and visual metaphor;
2. critically evaluate ideas, arguments and empirical research relating to visual semiotics and cultures;
3. analyse (well-chosen extracts from) graphic memoirs, using appropriate theories, concepts and methodologies.

The module will be delivered through a mix of large group and small group sessions, including, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings. Full details on the delivery mode of this module will be available on Learning Central at the start of the academic year – and may be, in part, determined by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidance.

Discipline/module specific skills:

1. Identification of the key meaning-making resources in graphic memoirs, including words and images, layout, typography and metaphor;
2. Basic practical skills of effective (verbo-)visual communication.

Traditional intellectual skills:

1. Critical reading;
2. Ability to make connections between different information and arguments;
3. Clear, fluent (and creative) communication of ideas and arguments.

Indicative Syllabus:

• Sociocultural origins and contexts  of the graphic memoir
• Formal features of the genre
• Representing the self
• Time and memory
• Performing truth and authenticity
• Ways of engaging the reader