Leiden University Student Repository

Sevim, Deniz (2023)

From Hokusai To Hergé: Orientalism and the influence of Japanese art within The Adventures of Tintin

Bachelor thesis | International Studies (BA)

Belgian comic book artist Hergè, the pseudonym of Georges Prosper Remi is one of the most notable and widely renowned artists of the early 20th century, most prominently known for his works ‘The Adventures of TinTin’ (org. Les Aventures de Tintin). His style is distinct and recognisable, and he is seen as a pioneer of this style as a comic art movement at the time. The use of clear lines, and the clear, realistic backgrounds, in contrast to the caricaturist appearance of the figures and creatures in the foreground, are some of the distinct markers of his style. This style was later named Ligne Claire. Hergè, like many contemporaries, were interested in the Japanese woodblock prints that were available in Europe at the time. This thesis explores why characteristics of Japanese Ukiyo-e prints, impressionism, and Shin-hanga prints can be found in Hergé’s work through orientalist theory and the lens of cultural appropriation.

Hokusai

Hergé

TinTin

Comics

Ukiyo-e

Japan

Art History

Author

Sevim, Deniz

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

East Asia

Supervisors

M.E. Crandol

ECTS Credits

15

Language

en