The History of Krazy Kat comic series: Krazy Kat is a comic strip created by George Herriman that was published from 1913 to 1944. It is considered one of the greatest comic strips of all time, known for its unique language, surreal humor, and beautiful artwork. Here is a brief history of the Krazy Kat comic series.
-
Creation of Krazy Kat (1913)
Krazy Kat was first introduced as a secondary character in George Herriman’s earlier comic strip The Dingbat Family in 1910. In 1913, Herriman created a new comic strip that centered around Krazy Kat, a naive and love-struck black cat, and Ignatz Mouse, a mischievous and sadistic mouse who delights in throwing bricks at Krazy’s head.
-
Early Reception and Changes (1913-1918)
The early years of Krazy Kat were met with mixed reviews and low circulation. Herriman made changes to the strip, including giving Krazy a more defined gender (she was originally portrayed as gender-fluid), and adding a supporting cast of characters, including Offissa Pupp, a canine police officer, and Kolin Kelly, a vain and pompous kangaroo.
-
The Jazz Age (1919-1929)
During the 1920s, Krazy Kat became wildly popular, particularly among the intellectual and artistic community. The strip’s surreal humor and poetic language appealed to the avant-garde sensibilities of the Jazz Age. Herriman’s artwork also evolved, becoming more abstract and experimental.
-
The Enduring Legacy (1930-1944)
Despite its popularity, Krazy Kat never achieved widespread commercial success. In 1934, William Randolph Hearst, who owned the newspaper syndicate that published Krazy Kat, threatened to cancel the strip due to low profits. Herriman, who had been suffering from ill health, was forced to sign a new contract that reduced his pay and control over the strip. Krazy Kat continued to be published until Herriman’s death in 1944.
-
Posthumous Recognition and Influence
Following Herriman’s death, Krazy Kat’s reputation continued to grow. The strip’s unique language and surreal humor influenced generations of artists and writers, including Jack Kerouac, Charles M. Schulz, and Art Spiegelman. In 1985, Krazy Kat was inducted into the Comic Book Hall of Fame, and in 1999, it was included in Time Magazine’s list of the 100 greatest works of fiction of the 20th century. Today, Krazy Kat is considered a masterpiece of American literature and an enduring symbol of the art form of comics.
Frequently Asked Questions about the History of Krazy Kat comic series
What is Krazy Kat?
Krazy Kat is a classic American comic strip created by cartoonist George Herriman. It first appeared in 1913 and ran until 1944. The strip is renowned for its unique and surreal humor, revolving around the whimsical relationships among its main characters.
Who are the main characters in Krazy Kat?
The central characters in Krazy Kat are Krazy Kat, a love-struck and gender-ambiguous cat; Ignatz Mouse, a mischievous mouse who enjoys throwing bricks at Krazy Kat; and Offisa Pup (Officer Pupp), a dog who often attempts to maintain order in the whimsical world of Coconino County.
What is the central theme of Krazy Kat?
The central theme of Krazy Kat revolves around the unrequited love between Krazy Kat and Ignatz Mouse. Ignatz’s habit of throwing bricks at Krazy’s head is interpreted by Krazy as a sign of affection, adding a layer of humor and complexity to the storyline.
Where is the setting of Krazy Kat?
The comic is set in the fictional Coconino County, a whimsical and surreal landscape that serves as the backdrop for Krazy Kat’s adventures. The landscape and settings often play a significant role in the visual appeal of the comic.
What makes Krazy Kat unique among comic strips?
Krazy Kat is unique for its innovative use of language, surreal humor, and the unconventional dynamics of its characters. The strip often features abstract and dreamlike landscapes, and Herriman’s use of dialects and wordplay adds complexity and charm.
How often was Krazy Kat published?
Krazy Kat was published as a daily comic strip from 1913 to 1944. It was also adapted into a Sunday comic strip. The daily strip featured black-and-white illustrations, while the Sunday strip showcased Herriman’s use of vibrant colors.
Was Krazy Kat popular during its original run?
While Krazy Kat did not achieve widespread commercial success during its original run, it gained critical acclaim for its artistic innovation and unique storytelling. Over time, it has come to be regarded as one of the greatest and most influential comic strips in American history.
How did George Herriman create Krazy Kat?
George Herriman, who was of mixed-race descent, drew inspiration for creating Krazy Kat from his experiences and observations of race relations. The comic often explored themes of identity, love, and societal norms, and Herriman’s background influenced the strip’s subtle social commentary.
Did Krazy Kat influence other works of art or entertainment?
Yes, Krazy Kat has profoundly impacted the world of comics and art. Its surreal and abstract style has inspired many cartoonists and artists. Prominent figures such as E.E. Cummings and Pablo Picasso expressed admiration for George Herriman’s work.
Is Krazy Kat still relevant today?
Despite its vintage origin, Krazy Kat remains relevant and influential in comics. Its unique storytelling, unconventional humor, and artistic innovation inspire contemporary cartoonists and readers interested in exploring the boundaries of the medium. Many consider it a timeless classic with enduring cultural significance.
Can I find collections or compilations of Krazy Kat today?
Various collections and compilations of Krazy Kat strips are available in book form. These compilations often feature selected strips, allowing readers to explore the unique and timeless world created by George Herriman. Many online platforms also offer access to Krazy Kat strips for those interested in experiencing the comic digitally.
