Cartoons, comics, and animation are similar but very different.
Many people may be asked to explain the difference between each, but they may not be able to.
This article will therefore explain the differences between them, explaining their characteristics and historical background.
What is Cartoon?
Cartoon refers to a short pictorial story or single picture that is humorous or satirical.
Often appearing in publications such as newspapers and magazines, they have been used as a means of expressing opinions and views on society and politics.
Cartoon Features
Cartoons are characterized by simple line drawings, deformed characters, and short stories that express humor and satire.
Others convey their message through pictures alone, without words.
Cartoons are considered to be visually impactful and easily attract people’s attention, making it easier to get the message across.
Cartoon Historical Background
Cartoons originated in England in the late 18th century. They later spread to the United States in the 19th century and gained popularity with the development of newspapers and magazines.
In the 20th century, with the advent of media such as television and film, the ways in which cartoons were expressed became more diverse.
What is Comics?
Comics are a form of expression that combines pictures and words to depict a story.
There are manga and graphic novels, catering to a variety of genres and target audiences.
Comic Features
Comics are characterized by a story that combines pictures and words to draw the reader into the world of the story.
In addition, the characters’ facial expressions, composition, and frame layout are precisely rendered, and the story progresses and emotions are richly expressed.
In addition, there is a wide variety of works catering to different genres and target audiences.
Historical Background of Comics
Comics first appeared in 19th century America as newspaper illustrations.
Later, in the 20th century, they began to be published in book form, giving birth to genres such as superheroes, fantasy, and mystery.
Various countries and cultures have also contributed to the development of comics, including Marvel and DC Comics in the U.S. and manga in Japan.
What is Animation?
Animation is a visual work that expresses movement by displaying a series of still images.
You can enjoy movies, TV programs, videos on the Internet, and many other media.
Animation Features
Animation is characterized by the use of a series of still images to make a character or object appear to move.
In addition, it is considered easier to express unrealistic elements and fantasy worldviews that cannot be expressed in the real world through animation.
In addition, elements other than visuals, such as music and voice acting, bring out the charm of the story.
Historical Background of Animation
The history of animation begins with the invention of optical toys and cinematographs in the late 19th century.
The 20th century saw the emergence of animators such as Walt Disney and Willis O’Brien, who produced animated films.
Animation has since been developed in a variety of media, including animated television and Internet animation.
Cartoon, Comic, and Animation Differences
Differences in genres and methods of expression
Cartoons are mostly short picture stories or single pictures that are humorous or satirical and express opinions and views on society and politics.
Comics are stories that combine pictures and words and are available in a variety of genres and target audiences.
Animation is a visual work that expresses movement by displaying a series of still images, and is considered to easily express unrealistic elements and fantasy worldviews that cannot be expressed in the real world.
Differences in production processes and techniques used
Cartoons are mainly hand-drawn or digitally illustrated, using simple line drawings and deformed characters.
Comics are often hand-drawn or digitally produced, with characters’ facial expressions, composition, and panel layouts elaborated in order to depict a story that combines pictures and words.
Animation expresses movement by displaying a series of still images. Various techniques are used for animation, including cel animation, in which animators draw each movement, and computer-based 3D animation.
Elements other than visual images, such as music and voice acting, also play an important role.
summary
Cartoons, comics, and animation each have different methods of expression, purposes, production processes, and techniques used.
Cartoons emphasize humor and satire, while comics emphasize narrative, and animation is characterized by movement and visual expression.
You will understand the unique appeal of each medium and enjoy a variety of works.
