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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of comics, as defined in Understanding Comics?

2. Besides sound, which of the following can represent a span of time in a single panel ?

3. Japanese comics artists also drew more realistic characters to emphasize __________________________.

4. What transition offers no logical relationship between panels?

5. What is another word for motion lines?

Short Essay Questions

1. Does McCloud think that non-sequitur transitions are possible?

2. Describe what cartooning style is.

3. How is the Egyptian painting referenced in the book considered a comic?

4. Is a single image equivalent to a single instant in time?

5. What is a Japanese technique usied in cartooning?

6. What are different ways to portray motion within panels?

7. How can an artist depict time in comics?

8. What are the three most popular transitions in mainstream Western comics and why?

9. Does McCloud think single panels should be considered comic art?

10. Give examples of the three different types of icons.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In your own words, answer Scott McCloud's question, "Why should we try so hard to understand comics?"

Essay Topic 2

Eastern and Western approaches to art differ. In graphic arts, for example, Western art often focuses attention to foreground objects only while Eastern art emphasizes both the foreground and the background of negative space. Argue the merits of shortcomings of each approach.

Essay Topic 3

McCloud argues children are fascinated by the simplicity and universal identification of cartoons and that these characteristics allow the viewer to step inside the cartoon universe. Do you agree that by simplifying the drawing style, one allows the viewer to see the message more clearly? Explain your perspective using examples.

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