Indian world view inspection from didactics in comic books “The Route to Your Roots”

Abstract

When maxims are integrated into the content of comic books, they can shape the way of thought and behaviour of younger readers. Indeed, didactic text in comic books can reflects the values and ideals of the host society. In particular, children’s books often contain stories that imbue a sense of goodness and desired values for their society. These value systems have been passed on for many generations, and they help shape and mirror the personality of the nation. Given this phenomenon, it led to study in analyzing the Indian world view through the lens of the comic book series “The Route to Your Roots.” The first volume in this series was published in 1969, and subsequently became divided into six themes: (1) Epics and Mythology; (2) Fables and Humour; (3) Indian Classics; (4) Contemporary Classics; (5) Brave Hearts; and (6) Visionaries. The didactic portions are story segments which reflect the Indian world view, and these can be classified as follows: (1) Respecting Parents; (2) Family Ties; (3) Attainment of Knowledge - Respecting Teachers; (4) Deity Worship; (5) Respect for Nature; and (6) Love for nation. Studying the content in these comic book series is one way to help outsiders explore the foundation of the socio-cultural value system or world view, and provide a more profound understanding of that population.  The values which members of society admire also represent the roots of a nation.