What distinguishes Franco-Belgian comics, often known as "bande dessinée," from American superhero comics in terms of themes and artistic style?
How have classic Franco-Belgian comic series like "Tintin" and "Asterix" influenced international perceptions of European culture and history?
In what ways have European comics addressed historical and political issues compared to their American counterparts?
Who are some of the most influential artists and writers in the Franco-Belgian comics tradition, and what are their signature works?
How do the publishing formats and readership demographics of European comics differ from those of Japanese manga and American comic books?
What are the defining characteristics of Franco-Belgian comics, and how do they differ from American and Japanese comic traditions?
Who are some of the most influential creators in the history of Franco-Belgian comics, and what are their notable works?
How did the Franco-Belgian comic scene evolve during the 20th century, and what were some key movements or trends during this period?
What role do publishers like Dupuis, Dargaud, and Casterman play in the development and dissemination of European comics?
How have contemporary European comics addressed social, political, or cultural issues, and can you provide examples of works that tackle these themes?