Continued look at the "Comic Strip"

In a variety of works by different artists at the birth of the comic strip, there are similarities and differences to be compared in both styles and stories. The works I will be discussing today are Herriman's Krazy Kat, Watterson's Calvin and Hobbes, and Schulz's Peanuts.

All three share an obvious element--humor. This is the comic strip after all, known to many as the "funnies". The delivery is also similar, in ways. There is a simple story that often ends in in a punchline, or a humorous action at least.  However, difference occurs in the length of the strip itself to achieve this. Krazy Kat is a full page, averaging at around twenty panels. I've seen Calvin and Hobbes strips go anywhere around half page to a couple of panels. Lastly, Peanuts keeps fairly steady at four panels, delivering a quick, satisfying little story. I enjoyed each of these comics. They feel very different from each other but share a humorous and child-like innocence.

Concerning the evolution of the comic strip itself, we must look at their outside factors. Strips were published weekly in the newspaper, so the viewers would become familiar and emotionally attached to these characters and stories. Much like I look forward to my favorite TV show once a week, funnies fanatics of the 30's anticipated their comic strips, devouring one just to "switch channels" to another. In this way characters could become endearing, Peanuts being a prime example. Even today--long after the artist has passed-- the fan base of Peanuts is a strong enough force to continue publishing for. Right along with Pikachu and Spongebob floats Charlie Brown in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade after all. Proof that early comic strips gave birth to some of the most memorable and iconic characters of all time.