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The period from the early 1970s to mid 1980s noted for darker storylines and the introduction of socially relevant issues. Example: 'Green Lantern/Green Arrow' dealt with topics like drug addiction.

A collection of previously published comic books reprinted in a more durable format. Example: 'The Walking Dead' volumes that collect the individual issues of the comic series.

The space between panels in a comic book. It can affect timing and the way a story is read. Example: The varying width of gutters can create a sense of rapid action or a slow pace.

A longer narrative work in comic book format, often with more complex storylines. Example: 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman, which depicts the Holocaust using anthropomorphic characters.

Narrative revealing how a character gained their abilities or began their superhero career. Example: Batman's origin story involves the death of Bruce Wayne's parents leading him to become the Dark Knight.

An alternative version of a comic book cover, often created by a different artist or for a special occasion. Example: A holographic variant cover for a milestone issue of 'X-Men'.

A full-page drawing in a comic book that typically introduces a scene or character with impact. Example: Batman standing atop a Gotham building, overlooking the city.

The official storyline and events within the universe of a particular comic book. Example: The events of 'The Death of Superman' are considered canon within the DC Universe.

A Japanese comic book or graphic novel with a distinctive style and following its own set of conventions. Example: 'Naruto', a popular manga series about a young ninja.

The period from the mid 1950s to early 1970s marked by the resurgence of superhero comics and more complex characters. Example: The creation of Spider-Man in 'Amazing Fantasy' #15 in 1962.

A single illustration frame on a comic book page that contains a segment of action. Example: A panel showing Spider-Man swinging across a cityscape.

The individual who adds color to the comic book pages, playing a significant role in the art's mood and style. Example: A colorist might use dark shades to convey a gloomy atmosphere in a Batman comic.

A brief appearance or reference of a character in a comic book, often before a full introduction. Example: Wolverine's cameo in 'The Incredible Hulk' #180 before his first full appearance in issue #181.

The period from the mid 1980s to the present, featuring more sophisticated storytelling and a proliferation of independent publishers. Example: The publication of 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore in 1986.

The artist who goes over the pencil lines with ink to define and finalize the pages. Example: An inker might add depth to Spider-Man's webbing to make it stand out.

Short for 'retroactive continuity,' it refers to changes that revise or ignore previous events in a comic's history. Example: Changing Spider-Man's origin story to include a lost sibling.

A comic book series with a predetermined number of issues, telling a complete narrative arc. Example: 'Watchmen' was released as a 12-issue limited series.

The period from the late 1930s to early 1950s considered the first boom of comic books, featuring the debut of many iconic superheroes. Example: The introduction of Superman in 'Action Comics' #1 in 1938.

The person responsible for drawing the comic book’s text, including dialogue and sound effects. Example: A letterer will decide how 'BAM!' or 'WHACK!' appears visually in a fight scene.