The comics medium – intermedial and multimodal aspects
15 credits
In this course, students will engage deeply with the multifaceted world of comics and graphic novels, examining how this visual medium interacts with literature, film, fine arts, and digital media. Through critical analysis and thoughtful discussion, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the comics medium negotiates and redefines storytelling across various cultural and artistic landscapes.
A particular focus of the course is placed on adaptations, exploring how graphic narratives are transformed when they move between different media. By studying adaptations of novels into graphic novels, comics into films, and vice versa, students will gain insights into the creative processes and challenges involved in transmedial storytelling. This analysis will provide a deeper appreciation for how narrative structures, visual styles, and thematic elements are reinterpreted and reimagined across media boundaries.
The course also explores the theoretical frameworks of intermediality and multimodality, offering tools to critically evaluate the interactions between text, image, and other forms of expression. By understanding these frameworks, students will be equipped to analyse the unique storytelling techniques of comics and how they contribute to broader media ecologies.
Students will explore a diverse range of graphic narratives, developing the skills to critically analyse the aesthetic and narrative strategies employed within the comics medium. The course combines academic inquiry with hands-on analytical practice, enabling students to not only interpret but also actively engage with the evolving field of comics studies and its various adaptations, contributing to a deeper understanding of this dynamic and influential art form.
Image (head): The Handmaid’s Tale (adaptation). Creative Commons.
Distance – study where you are
Distance learning can be structured in different ways – it may be entirely online, or include a few on-campus sessions or meetings at one of our learning centres. The common factor is that most of the learning happens online.
You communicate with your teacher and fellow students through a learning platform, which provides access to discussion forums, group work opportunities, and digital meetings. In many cases, you also have access to recorded lectures via the platform.
The advantage of distance learning is its flexibility – ideal for those who want more freedom to decide when and where to study. However, keep in mind that some mandatory elements of your programme may take place during working hours, even if they are conducted online.
Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus
Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.
Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.
With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.
Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.
Build your own degree
Did you know that you can combine single-subject courses to build your own degree? In this way, you can design your own degree based on your interests and the career you are aiming for. This does not apply to all courses so make sure to check with a study counsellor at the faculty. Learn more about how you can build your own degree and become unique on the labour market.