A Brief History of Franco-Belgian Comics
Learn the history of Franco-Belgian comics
Ever heard of The Smurfs? I bet you thought they were made in America.
The thing is, comics is typically perceived as comics exclusively made in America. But did you know France and Belgium make their own comics too?
Referred to in Europe as “Le Neuvième Art”, the Ninth Art, Franco-Belgian comics has a unique history.
In Europe, it is known as bandes dessinées — literally meaning drawn strips and BD for short.
BD is widely popular in Europe. Oh, and why is it labeled Franco-Belgian? It’s because it originates in France and Belgium. (Duh)
Despite serving a broad European audience with many languages, it’s mainly created for readership in France and Belgium. It’s translated into French, Dutch, and English. (Surprise! Belgium is bilingual.)
The Beginning of Bandes Dessinées
BD at the beginning of the 20th century was initially published as gags and entertainment for younger readers.
After the end of World War I, popularity for BD began to spread around Europe. Eventually, series became magazines, and more publishers were on board with BD.
One notable example is The Adventures of Tintin by Georges Remi (also known by the pen name Hergé), which heavily influenced the publishing style of the BD industry at the time.
The Birth of Modern Bandes Dessinées
What set BD to the next level is its feature of “Le Journal de Mickey” in 1934 focusing on the adventures of Mickey Mouse and his friends. This comics’ immense success eventually attracted American-style comics into Western Europe.
Unfortunately, during World War II, American comics were banned in France and Belgium, increasing the demand for comics. The good news, however, the opportunities it created for young artists to enter the industry and explore their artistic creativity with new heroes and stories.
Take, for example, Superman and Flash Gordon. Banned by Nazis, authors like Edgar P. Jacobs continued the unfinished superhero stories with their ideas. Jacobs put his spin into the series.
On top of artistic exploration, the lack of American influence allowed France to develop its style and system of comics.
Post World War II
Following the end of World War II, many artists like Hergé were accused of collaborating with the Nazi Party and imprisoned by the French resistance. Luckily, many were able to clear their names.
Afterward, modern BD began to flourish and see significant changes with iconic characters like Tintin, Asterix, and The Smurfs.
Even adult comics were introduced to cater to the kinky audience looking for new and exciting means of self-gratification.
Present Day BD
While the golden age of BD is long done, it is still prevalent in Europe and translated in most European languages. New titles are released continuously and cater to a diverse audience of all ages and interests
As the third-largest market in the comics industry, it’s evident that Franco-Belgian comics is nowhere close to dying.
