Studies in Comics

Scope & Guideline

Bridging Disciplines Through Comic Studies

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of Studies in Comics through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore Studies in Comics in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2040-3232
PublisherINTELLECT LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2019 to 2023
AbbreviationSTUD COMICS / STUD. COMICS
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressTHE MILL, PARNALL RD, BRISTOL BS16 3JG, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Studies in Comics' focuses on the multifaceted nature of comics as a medium, exploring its cultural, social, and artistic dimensions. It aims to provide a platform for scholarly discourse on various aspects of comics, including their narrative structures, visual aesthetics, and the contexts in which they are created and received.
  1. Interdisciplinary Research:
    The journal promotes interdisciplinary studies that integrate insights from literature, art history, cultural studies, and media studies to analyze comics in a comprehensive manner.
  2. Cultural Representation:
    A core focus is on how comics represent different cultures, identities, and social issues, including race, gender, and politics, reflecting the diverse narratives within the medium.
  3. Digital and Print Media:
    The journal examines the transition and interplay between digital and print comics, exploring how these formats influence creation, consumption, and distribution.
  4. Educational Applications:
    Research on the use of comics as educational tools, particularly in promoting literacy and understanding complex socio-scientific issues, is a significant area of exploration.
  5. Historical Analysis:
    The journal includes studies on the historical development of comics, analyzing their evolution, genres, and impact on society over time.
  6. Comics Theory and Criticism:
    It also engages with theoretical frameworks and critical analyses that seek to understand the mechanics of comics as a narrative form, including discussions on visual language and sequential art.
Recent publications in 'Studies in Comics' highlight several emerging themes that reflect the current cultural and technological landscape of comics. These trends indicate a shift towards more inclusive, diverse, and innovative approaches to comic studies.
  1. Autobiographical and Memoir Comics:
    There is an increasing focus on autobiographical comics that explore personal identity, memory, and cultural experiences, showcasing the medium's ability to convey deep personal narratives.
  2. Digital Comics and New Media:
    Emerging themes around digital comics, webcomics, and their impact on storytelling and audience engagement are gaining traction, reflecting the growing significance of digital platforms in comics culture.
  3. Intersectionality in Comics:
    The exploration of intersectionality—how various social identities such as race, gender, and sexuality intersect—is becoming a prominent theme, with studies examining diverse voices and experiences within comics.
  4. Comics as Educational Tools:
    The application of comics in educational settings, particularly in developing literacy and critical thinking skills, is trending, highlighting their potential as effective pedagogical resources.
  5. Global Perspectives in Comics:
    An increasing number of studies are focusing on comics from non-Western cultures, broadening the scope of comic studies to include global narratives and artistic expressions.

Declining or Waning

As the journal evolves, certain themes appear to be receiving less attention in recent publications. This decline may reflect shifts in scholarly interest or changes in the comics landscape.
  1. Traditional Superhero Narratives:
    While superhero comics have been a staple in comic studies, there has been a noticeable decline in articles focusing exclusively on traditional superhero narratives, as the journal shifts towards more diverse and contemporary themes.
  2. Print-Only Comics:
    There is a diminishing focus on print-only comics, with fewer studies addressing them in isolation, as the discourse increasingly emphasizes the hybridization of comics across formats.
  3. Nostalgic Retrospectives:
    Themes centered around nostalgic retrospectives of classic comics are less prevalent, indicating a shift towards contemporary interpretations and critical analyses of current works.
  4. Mainstream Genre Studies:
    Fewer articles are dedicated to mainstream genres like romance or crime comics, suggesting a move towards exploring niche genres or more avant-garde forms of comics.
  5. Static Visual Analysis:
    The journal appears to be moving away from purely static visual analysis of comics, instead favoring dynamic discussions that incorporate reader reception and interaction.

Similar Journals

Comics Grid-Journal of Comics Scholarship

Innovating Research at the Crossroads of Art and Literature
Publisher: OPEN LIBRARY OF HUMANITIESISSN: 2048-0792Frequency:

The Comics Grid: Journal of Comics Scholarship is a distinguished open-access journal published by the Open Library of Humanities, dedicated to advancing scholarly discourse in the fields of comics studies, visual arts, and literary theory. Established in 2011, this journal provides a platform for innovative research and critical analysis, exploring the intersection of narrative and visual art forms within comic culture. With an impressive Scopus ranking placing it in the 84th percentile for Literature and Literary Theory and the 75th percentile for Visual Arts and Performing Arts, the journal reflects its commitment to high-quality scholarship. The Comics Grid is particularly impactful in fostering an academic community around comics, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the multifaceted dimensions of comics as a medium. Its accessible open-format ensures that vital research is available to a global audience, further enhancing the visibility and impact of comics scholarship.

Film International

Connecting Perspectives Through the Lens of Film.
Publisher: INTELLECT LTDISSN: 1651-6826Frequency: 4 issues/year

Film International is a prominent journal dedicated to the exploration of film and its cultural, social, and artistic significance. Published by INTELLECT LTD, this journal serves as a platform for interdisciplinary studies in the field of film criticism, theory, and scholarship, contributing valuable insights from both established and emerging researchers. With an ISSN of 1651-6826 and an E-ISSN of 2040-3801, the journal is an essential resource for those engaged in the realms of communication, cultural studies, and visual arts, though it is currently classified in the lower quartiles of these fields (Q4). Noteworthy for its critical perspectives and diverse content, Film International enhances the dialogue surrounding cinematic practices and their impact on society. Researchers, professionals, and students can explore its rich assemblage of articles and reviews that reflect the evolving landscape of film studies, making it a significant addition to the academic community focused on the art of film.

South Central Review

Fostering Scholarly Dialogue Across Disciplines
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 0743-6831Frequency: 3 issues/year

South Central Review, a distinguished academic journal published by Johns Hopkins University Press, serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse in the fields of cultural studies, literature and literary theory, philosophy, and the visual and performing arts. With an ISSN of 0743-6831 and an E-ISSN of 1549-3377, this journal is dedicated to highlighting innovative research and critical analyses that explore the complexities of Southern culture and its broader implications. Although it operates without an open access option, the journal is recognized for its rigorous peer-review process and contributions to contemporary academic dialogue, holding Q3 and Q4 rankings across several disciplines as of 2023. The convergence of ideas and perspectives from diverse academic backgrounds positions the South Central Review as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of the cultural narratives shaping our world today.

New Review of Film and Television Studies

Cultivating Knowledge in the Realm of Screen Studies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1740-0309Frequency: 4 issues/year

New Review of Film and Television Studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a vital platform for scholars and practitioners engaged in the dynamic fields of film and television studies within the United Kingdom. This journal, which has been in circulation since 2010 and will continue through 2024, provides a rigorous academic forum for contemporary research, critical analysis, and innovative discourse surrounding visual storytelling. With an impressive Scopus rank placing it in the 66th percentile for Visual Arts and Performing Arts, and a respectable Q2 categorization, the journal fosters an interdisciplinary approach, bridging communication and cultural studies. While the journal does not currently operate under an open access model, it remains an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and professionals aiming to understand and influence the evolving landscape of film and television in our digital age. As it navigates the intersection of media and society, New Review of Film and Television Studies is essential reading for those looking to advance their knowledge and contribute to the ongoing scholarly conversation.

REPRESENTATIONS

Unveiling New Perspectives on Social Issues
Publisher: UNIV CALIFORNIA PRESSISSN: 0734-6018Frequency: 4 issues/year

REPRESENTATIONS, published by University of California Press, is a prominent academic journal that has made significant contributions to the fields of Arts and Humanities, Cultural Studies, Gender Studies, and Sociology and Political Science since its inception in 1983. With an ISSN of 0734-6018 and E-ISSN of 1533-855X, REPRESENTATIONS is recognized for its rigorous scholarship and critical discourse, currently positioned in Q2 within its primary categories and holding respectable ranks in Scopus, reflecting its influence and relevance in contemporary academic conversations. Designed for a diverse audience including researchers, educators, and students, this journal facilitates an interdisciplinary dialogue that addresses pressing societal issues through various scholarly lenses. While not openly accessible, its articles are invaluable for those seeking in-depth analysis and innovative perspectives. For continued engagement with critical scholarship through 2024 and beyond, REPRESENTATIONS serves as an essential platform for enriching the discourse surrounding cultural and social inquiries.

Fictions-Studi Sulla Narrativita

Exploring the Art and Science of Narrative.
Publisher: FABRIZIO SERRA EDITOREISSN: 1721-3673Frequency: 1 issue/year

Fictions-Studi Sulla Narrativita, published by Fabrizio Serra Editore, is an esteemed academic journal dedicated to the exploration of narrative theory and its multifaceted applications within literature and the arts. Since its inception, the journal has become a vital platform for scholars, researchers, and students interested in the intricate structures and theoretical frameworks that underpin narrative forms. With ISSN 1721-3673 and E-ISSN 1724-045X, it aims to bridge contemporary literary discourse with historical perspectives, creating a comprehensive discourse on storytelling methodologies. Although the journal is categorized within the lower quartiles in Scopus rankings, it serves a crucial function in fostering academic dialogue and innovation among emerging voices in the field. The journal's recent convergence years, spanning 2019 to 2023, reflect a growing interest in narrative studies, emphasizing its relevance and responsiveness to current scholarly trends. As an essential resource for those engaged in the arts, humanities, and literary theory, Fictions-Studi Sulla Narrativita invites contributions that challenge conventional narratives and inspire new interpretations of text and storytelling.

Animation-An Interdisciplinary Journal

Advancing Interdisciplinary Insights in Animation
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1746-8477Frequency: 3 issues/year

Animation: An Interdisciplinary Journal is a distinguished publication that explores the dynamic intersections of animation within the spheres of visual arts and performing arts. Published by SAGE Publications Inc in the United Kingdom, this journal has established itself as a significant platform for scholarly discourse, boasting a 2023 Scopus ranking that places it in the 79th percentile among a competitive cohort of arts and humanities journals. With a Q2 ranking in both Visual Arts and Performing Arts, the journal publishes innovative research that spans theoretical frameworks, technical advances, and cultural impacts of animation, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find Animation an invaluable resource for understanding the evolving role of animation in contemporary society. Its comprehensive approach ensures that every edition contributes to the ongoing narrative of animation as a critical art form, making it essential reading for anyone invested in the future of animated media.

FABULA

Unveiling the Complexities of Storytelling
Publisher: WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBHISSN: 0014-6242Frequency: 2 issues/year

FABULA is a distinguished academic journal published by WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBH, focused on the fields of Cultural Studies and Literature and Literary Theory. Since its inception in 1958, FABULA has contributed significantly to the discourse surrounding narrative theory, literary analysis, and cultural criticism, positioning itself as a vital platform for innovative research. With a Q2 ranking in Literature and Literary Theory and a Q3 ranking in Cultural Studies for 2023, the journal demonstrates its commitment to high-quality scholarship while fostering interdisciplinary dialogue among researchers and professionals. Although it currently does not offer Open Access options, its rigorous selection process ensures that published works meet the highest academic standards. Located in Berlin, Germany, FABULA remains a crucial resource for scholars seeking to deepen their understanding of the complexities inherent in narrative forms and their cultural implications, supporting ongoing research endeavors from 1964 through 2024.

Film Fashion & Consumption

Decoding the Interplay of Style and Social Narratives
Publisher: INTELLECT LTDISSN: 2044-2823Frequency: 2 issues/year

Film Fashion & Consumption is an innovative academic journal published by INTELLECT LTD, focusing on the interdisciplinary exploration of the intertwined domains of film, fashion, and cultural consumption. Established in 2019, this journal has rapidly become a significant platform for scholars, practitioners, and students alike, contributing to critical discussions on how visual culture shapes consumer behaviors and social narratives. With an impact factor reflecting a growing influence in the fields of Communication, Cultural Studies, History, and Visual Arts, it holds respectable positions in its respective quartiles as of 2023. Although it is not an open-access journal, it provides essential insights and research articles that inform and challenge prevailing notions around media and style. The journal's Scopus rankings highlight its relevance, particularly within the realms of Visual Arts and Cultural Studies, making it a valuable resource for anyone engaged in the analysis of contemporary visual trends.

Visual Studies

Transforming perspectives through critical visual scholarship.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1472-586XFrequency: 5 issues/year

Visual Studies, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading international journal that serves as a vital platform for interdisciplinary scholarship in the fields of visual arts, cultural studies, and anthropology. Established in 2002 and continuing strong through 2024, it holds impressive rankings including Q1 in Cultural Studies and Visual Arts and Performing Arts, as well as Q2 in Anthropology, reflecting its significant impact and prestige within these disciplines. With a robust Scopus ranking placing it in the 89th percentile for Visual Arts and Performing Arts, this journal does not only publish original research but also fosters rich dialogues on visual culture, representation, and critical theory. Although it is not open access, researchers, practitioners, and students alike can benefit from its rigorous peer-reviewed content, which contributes to advancing knowledge and understanding of visual phenomena. Located in the United Kingdom, Visual Studies continues to shape the conversations surrounding visual practices and their societal implications.