Publication Date
Spring 2014
School
College of Arts and Sciences
Major
English
Disciplines
English Language and Literature
Recommended Citation
Borders, Liza A., "R. Crumb’s The Book of Genesis Illustrated: Biblical Narrative and the Impact of Illustration" (2014). Senior Honors Theses. 408.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/408
Abstract
An artist known for his sexually charged, grotesque art joins with the sacred text of the Bible’s Genesis in R. Crumb’s The Book of Genesis Illustrated. An academic approach to the graphic novel recognizes the depth of meaning the art develops through the story. The intriguing facial expressions within Crumb’s book call into question the motives of the active participants within the narrative of Noah and the infamous floating zoo. Deviant from a Christian view of the Bible, Crumb disputes the honor of Scripture and perpetuates his typical social satire though he uses a biblical text. Reflecting upon a traditional Christian understanding, Crumb’s audience reflect upon rounded, emotional characters who balance between an experience of God’s justice and His grace.
