Modern age

Definition

The modern age refers to a period in history that began in the late 15th century and continues into the present, characterized by significant advancements in technology, philosophy, art, and culture. This era saw the rise of individualism, secularism, and globalization, which are essential elements that have influenced various forms of expression, including comics and sequential art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The modern age has seen the development of new artistic forms, particularly in comics and sequential art, which have emerged as important mediums for storytelling.
2. Technological advancements during the modern age, such as printing and later digital media, have allowed for greater distribution and accessibility of comics.
3. Comics reflect modern themes such as identity, social issues, and cultural commentary, often embodying the complexities of contemporary life.
4. The interplay between visual art and literature became more pronounced during the modern age, with comics blending these two forms to create unique narratives.
5. The emergence of superhero comics in the mid-20th century is one of the defining features of modern age comics, reflecting societal values and fears during that time.

Review Questions

• How has the concept of individualism in the modern age influenced the themes explored in comics and sequential art?
  • Individualism, a key characteristic of the modern age, emphasizes personal identity and self-expression. This has significantly influenced comics and sequential art by allowing creators to explore complex characters who navigate personal challenges, societal expectations, and moral dilemmas. The focus on unique perspectives fosters a rich narrative landscape where diverse voices can be heard, ultimately making comics a powerful tool for discussing contemporary issues.
• In what ways did technological advancements during the modern age contribute to the evolution of comics as an artistic medium?
  • Technological advancements in printing techniques and later digital media revolutionized how comics were produced and distributed. The advent of color printing allowed for more vibrant illustrations, while digital platforms expanded access to a global audience. These changes not only made comics more appealing but also enabled artists to experiment with form and narrative structure, pushing the boundaries of how stories could be told visually.
• Evaluate how the rise of postmodernism has impacted contemporary comics and their relationship with traditional storytelling methods from the modern age.
  • The rise of postmodernism brought a new layer of complexity to contemporary comics by challenging traditional storytelling methods established during the modern age. Comics began to incorporate metafictional elements, play with genre conventions, and embrace ambiguity in narrative. This shift allows for a more fragmented approach to storytelling, reflecting a world where truth is subjective and multiple interpretations coexist. As a result, contemporary comics often engage with themes of identity and cultural critique in ways that resonate with postmodern sensibilities.

Related terms

Renaissance: A cultural movement that marked the transition from the medieval period to the modern age, emphasizing humanism, art, and scientific inquiry.

Postmodernism: A late 20th-century reaction against modernism, characterized by skepticism towards grand narratives and embracing diversity and fragmentation in art and literature.

Industrial Revolution: A period of rapid industrial growth and technological advancement during the late 18th and early 19th centuries that fundamentally changed society and influenced artistic movements.