Sunday, December 6, 2009

Graphic Novel Unit

Watchmen: Theme

There are many themes within Alan Moore's Watchmen, both with social and literary components. One of the themes located within the novel can be known as archetypes. Each character within the graphic novel can be classified as a particular archetype:

The Anima and the Animus:
The relationship between Laurie and Dan represents both the male and female half of the anima and the animus. As both halves are searching for love and companionship (finding your other half), the eventually fall in love and are connected to each other on an emotional level.

The Hero:
Rorschach can be classified as the "Rogue" Hero, as he is not portrayed as an innocent being with much to learn. Rorschach's goal is to make sure that justice is served and uses any meens necessary to get what he wants. He is very intelligent and cunning, which differentiates from a standard hero as they typically play it safe and have musch to learn.

The Quest/Call for Adventure:
Rorschach is faced with the task of uncovering the killer responsible for killing Edward Blake. To do so, he must go on the journey to find clues that will lead Rorschach to the killer.

The Wizard:
The idea of magical powers is evident within the film when analyzing Dr. Manhattan, as he can teleport from place to place, reconstruct atoms, and he also has the ability to change his height at a drastic level. His skin tone and way of dress also leans more towards that of a wizard.

The Shadow:
Towards the end of the novel, Rorschach and Night Owl soon discover that Ozymandias is responsible for the death of the Comedian and much of the havoc that has been spread throughout New York. In order for this to stop Rorschach must defeat the Shadow.

These are just some of many archetypes that can be found throughout the graphic novel.

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