• AFSANA KHATOON
• DUSHYANT B. NIMAVAT

This paper aims to challenge the notion that graphic novels are solely intended for children and lack the depth of traditional literature. Drawing inspiration from Jacques Derrida's essay on the play of signs, and Roland Barthes’s “The Pleasure of the Text”, this study examines the transformative power of words, images, and graphics in the graphic novel medium as it tries to view a Graphic novel as a ‘readerly text’. Through an analysis of Will Eisner and Amitav Ghosh’s work, this research highlights how graphic novels transcend their perceived limitations and acquire a distinct literariness. By emphasizing the interplay between text and visuals, these authors broaden readers’ horizons, inspire imagination, and invite multiple interpretations. This study ultimately seeks to recognize the artistic and narrative potential of graphic novels as a unique form of literary expression.

Graphic novels, Literariness, Derrida, Barthes, Will Eisner, Amitav Ghosh

"“BEYOND THE CANONICAL LITERATURE: EXPLORING THE LITERARINESS OF GRAPHIC NOVELS IN WILL EISNER AND AMITAV GHOSH’S WORKS”", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 11, page no.c121-c123, November-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2511215.pdf

"“BEYOND THE CANONICAL LITERATURE: EXPLORING THE LITERARINESS OF GRAPHIC NOVELS IN WILL EISNER AND AMITAV GHOSH’S WORKS”", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 11, page no. ppc121-c123, November-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2511215.pdf