The world of comics has come to acquire significance in popular culture today but did you know that the origins of the world's first comic book can be traced to Glasgow in Scotland, United Kingdom?
Research by comic book historians who have found evidence that "The Glasgow Looking Glass" first published in Glasgow predates all other known modern comics is set to be presented at a global conference at the Glasgow University according to a statement released by organisers.
Over 100 speakers are listed to present research at the week-long International Graphic Novel and International Bande Dessinee Society (IBDS) conference beginning June 24.
The "Glasgow Looking Glass", which was first released in Glasgow in 1826 cast a satirical eye over 19th century Scottish society poking fun at the fashions and politics of the era. It is commonly considered to have been a predecessor of Punch and a prototype for the topical graphic journalism publications, a genre that became increasingly popular throughout the Victorian Era.
"We are delighted the University of Glasgow is playing host to so many distinguished scholars, authors and experts of the genre. Work being presented at the conference shows that not only in Scotland and particularly Glsgow, right at the forefront of the comic book industry today, but it has been so throughout history," organiser Lawrence Grove said.
The conference is set to close with a keynote lecture by Jean-Vyes Ferri, who has authored the latest book in the longest running "Asterix" comic book series which is due for release in October this year.
Origins of the comics genre, the cultural status of the comics today, the emergence of international comic traditions and how the genre can reflect national identities in present day are all issues on the agenda of the conference.
"By hosting major events such as this were are really helping to re-conceptualise comic books: we're changing the cultural cannon in a way," said Grove.
