Charlie Mensuel, also known simply as Charlie, was a French monthly comics magazine that left an indelible mark on satire and humor. With its publication spanning from February 1969 to February 1986, Charlie carved out its unique space in satirical comics. Founded by Delfeil de Ton and Georges Bernier, the magazine quickly gained popularity for its witty content and irreverent take on contemporary issues.
Charlie Mensuel
| Editor | Georges Wolinski (1970–1981) |
|---|---|
| Categories | satirical comics magazine |
| Frequency | monthly |
| Publisher | Éditions du Square (1969–1981) Éditions Dargaud (1982–1986) |
| Founder | Delfeil de Ton and Georges Bernier |
| First issue | 1 February 1969 |
| Final issue | 1 February 1986 |
| Country | France |
| Based in | Paris, France |
| Language | French |
Charlie Mensuel was a French monthly comics magazine that operated from February 1969 to February 1986. It was known for its satirical content and humorous comic strips.
Founding and Early Years
Charlie Mensuel debuted on February 1, 1969, under the editorial leadership of Delfeil de Ton, in collaboration with Georges Bernier’s Editions du Square. From its inception, Charlie positioned itself as a satirical comics magazine, offering biting commentary on politics, society, and culture. The magazine’s “The newspaper full of humor and comic strips” tagline reflected its commitment to entertaining readers while challenging prevailing norms.
Evolution and Editorial Leadership
Over the years, Charlie Mensuel underwent several changes in editorial leadership. One of the most notable figures to helm the magazine was Georges Wolinski, who served as editor-in-chief from 1970 to 1981. Wolinski’s tenure marked a period of significant growth and innovation for Charlie as he introduced new talent and expanded the magazine’s reach.
Collaborations and Influences
Charlie Mensuel drew inspiration from various sources, including its Italian counterpart, Linus. Like Linus, Charlie took its name from a character in the famous comic strip Peanuts – Charlie Brown. The magazine featured a mix of original French comics and translated works from American and Italian artists, including Peanuts and stories from Linus.
Charlie Hebdo and Continued Impact
In 1970, Charlie Mensuel lent its name to Charlie Hebdo (Charlie Weekly), which became the successor to L’Hebdo Hara-Kiri. Following the prohibition of Hara-Kiri, Charlie Hebdo carried on the tradition of irreverent satire, becoming a symbol of free expression in France and beyond.
Cease of Publication and Legacy
Despite its initial success, Charlie Mensuel faced challenges that led to its eventual demise. The magazine ceased publication for the first time in September 1981, only to be revived by Editions Dargaud in April 1982. However, this resurrection was short-lived, and Charlie Mensuel published its final issue on February 1, 1986.
Merger with Pilote and Pilote et Charlie
Following the end of Charlie Mensuel, the magazine merged with Pilote, another iconic French comics magazine, on February 1, 1986. The resulting publication, Pilote et Charlie, sought to combine the strengths of both magazines while preserving their identities. However, this endeavor proved unsustainable, and Pilote et Charlie reverted to Pilote in September 1988.
Conclusion
Although Charlie Mensuel may no longer be published, its legacy remains in French comics and satire. The magazine’s bold humor and incisive commentary inspire artists and writers to this day, ensuring that Charlie’s impact will be felt for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Charlie Mensuel
What was Charlie Mensuel?
Charlie Mensuel, also known simply as Charlie, was a French monthly comics magazine operated from February 1969 to February 1986. It gained renown for its satirical content and humorous comic strips.
Who were the founders of Charlie Mensuel?
Charlie Mensuel was founded by Delfeil de Ton and Georges Bernier. They launched the magazine in collaboration with Editions du Square in 1969.
What types of content did Charlie Mensuel feature?
Charlie Mensuel featured a mix of original French comics, translated American comic strips (such as Peanuts), and Italian stories from Linus. The content often included satirical commentary on politics, society, and culture.
Who were some notable editors of Charlie Mensuel?
One of the most notable editors-in-chief of Charlie Mensuel was Georges Wolinski, who held the position from 1970 to 1981. Other editors included Willem and Mandryka.
What was the relationship between Charlie Mensuel and Charlie Hebdo?
Charlie Mensuel lent its name to Charlie Hebdo, which emerged as the successor to L’Hebdo Hara-Kiri in 1970. Charlie Hebdo continued the tradition of irreverent satire, with roots in the ethos of Charlie Mensuel.
Why did Charlie Mensuel cease publication?
Charlie Mensuel faced challenges that led to its cessation in September 1981. Although it was briefly revived by Editions Dargaud in April 1982, the magazine ultimately published its final issue on February 1, 1986.
What happened after Charlie Mensuel ceased publication?
After Charlie Mensuel ceased publication, it merged with Pilote, another French comics magazine, on February 1, 1986. The resulting publication was Pilote et Charlie, which later reverted to Pilote in September 1988.
What is the legacy of Charlie Mensuel?
Despite its discontinuation, Charlie Mensuel left an enduring legacy in French comics and satire. Its bold humor, incisive commentary, and influence on subsequent publications continue to be felt today.
