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Sons and Grandsons of Origins: Narrative Memory in Marvel Superhero Comics

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Comics Memory

Part of the book series: Palgrave Studies in Comics and Graphic Novels ((PSCGN))

Abstract

This chapter analyzes the form and management of memory by mainstream superhero publishers, with a focus on the publications of Marvel Comics. In superhero comics publishing, memory is related to “continuity,” the constraint of intertextual coherence that stories have to adhere to, whoever their creators are. In this context, memory is localized (restricted to the output of one company), narrative-centered (considering stories rather than style), and malleable (since memory can be modified to accommodate commercial and creative developments). Such a corporate narrative memory requires specific editorial practices for its preservation and its mediation to readers and for its adaptation to their current needs.

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Méon, JM. (2018). Sons and Grandsons of Origins: Narrative Memory in Marvel Superhero Comics. In: Ahmed, M., Crucifix, B. (eds) Comics Memory. Palgrave Studies in Comics and Graphic Novels. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-91746-7_10

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