The Political Imagination in Spanish Graphic Narrative

"Living in the United States for the last decade has given me a new perspective on comics from my homeland, Spain. It has made me appreciate what a vibrant and exceptional creative landscape has developed there during the early years of this century. New graphic novels have challenged the legacy of traditional Spanish comics, but something that was sorely lacking until now was a critical approach to this movement, a project that delved into what makes comics coming from Spain in recent years so fresh and innovative. I'm happy that this collection of essays tackles all those different topics-identity, minorities, memory-in a nuanced and complex way, giving us the chance to stop for a moment and reflect on the new graphic traditions that we've been building for the future."

Santiago García, Award winning graphic artist of The Ladies-In-Waiting (2017) and author of On the Graphic Novel (2010)

"Iberian studies need more concrete research like The Political Imagination of Spanish Graphic Narrative with sharp perspectives on political and social issues that are part of the Spanish Cultural expression in comics. This volume is key to develop intellectual knowledge and critical thinking about representation and ideology. Let's celebrate this solid and inspirational step toward the discussion of the political power of graphic novels and comics in Contemporary Spain."

Ana Merino, Professor and Collegiate Scholar, University of Iowa.

During the dictatorship, comics in Spain were one of the few spaces where sociological reality seeped through the interstices of seemingly children's publications, creating an indelible connection between the ninth art and society. The analyses included in The Political Imagination of Spanish Graphic Narrative demonstrate that this link not only remains alive decades later, but that modern Spanish comics have been able to adapt, in content and form, to the new demands that arise from a constantly evolving society.

Álvaro Pons, Professor and Chair of Comic Studies, University of Valencia.