“If He Be Mr. Hyde, We Shall Be Mr. See”: Using Graphic Novels, Comic Books, and the Visual Narrative in the Gothic Literature Classroom

Abstract

In this chapter, Powell highlights the advantages of incorporating graphic novels into the Gothic literature classroom. Considering texts such as Robert Louis Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and their graphic novel adaptations, Powell discusses the ways in which the universality of comics and the ability of comic characters to adapt through the years allow students to relate to older texts in a new and refreshing way. As Powell demonstrates, comics and other forms of visual narrative are universally engaging and can serve as a means to usher reluctant readers toward a more pleasurable, and thus successful, classroom experience, while introducing the visual narrative to the Gothic literature classroom not only bridges the gaps with less advanced learners, but engages all levels of students, better ensuring mastery of complex Gothic topics.