Comic Book Collection

Collection

Identifier: MS-1977-001

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The materials in this collection were created from 1961-1996. The collection consists of two accessions. The first donation, primarily Tarzan comics from the mid-1960s, was donated by Marion Dearman of the Sociology Department January 31, 1977. The second donation, Tarzan comics from the mid-1990s, was donated November 9th, 2016 by Jaime Zeffery, Digitization Projects Assistant.

Series I: Tarzan Comics Inclusive Dates: 1961-1996 Arrangement: chronological

This large series consists of Tarzan storylines published by Dell, DC, and Dark Horse Comics. The comics range from 1970-1990s.

Series II: Other Comics Inclusive Dates: 1951-1975 Arrangement: chronological

This small series consists of four different comics ranging from the 1950s to 1970s. Included in this series are Batman, Mammy Yokum, Dennice the Menace, and Hurray for Andy Capp!

Dates

Creation: 1961 - 1996

Conditions Governing Use

Comic Book Collection is the physical property of California State University, Los Angeles, John F. Kennedy Memorial Library, Special Collections and Archives.

Biographical / Historical

Perceived to be a staple of literature entertainment, comic books introduced readers to superheroes and fictional stories. One of the most iconic characters to emerge from the comic era was Tarzan “King of the Apes.” The story of a man who grew up to be the lord of the jungle, Tarzan swung through vines, battled fearsome creatures, and defeated powerful villains. Created by Edgar Rice Burroughs in early 20th century, Tarzan captivated readers and became a comic book icon. The rise of Tarzan’s popularity led to the publication of numerous issues by many companies including DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, and Dell.

Today, Tarzan is considered a staple in comic literature and has inspired movies, toys, and new comics.

The bulk of this collection features 1970s DC Tarzan comics. The collection also includes an issue of Batman, Mammy Yokum, Dennis the Menace, and Hurray for Andy Capp!

Extent

0.63 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Perceived to be a staple of literature entertainment, comic books introduced readers to superheroes and fictional stories. One of the most iconic characters to emerge from the comic era was Tarzan “King of the Apes.” The story of a man who grew up to be the lord of the jungle, Tarzan swung through vines, battled fearsome creatures, and defeated powerful villains. Created by Edgar Rice Burroughs in early 20th century, Tarzan captivated readers and became a comic book icon. The rise of Tarzan’s popularity led to the publication of numerous issues by many companies including DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, and Dell. Today, Tarzan is considered a staple in comic literature and has inspired movies, toys, and new comics. The bulk of this collection features 1970s DC Tarzan comics. The collection also includes an issue of Batman, Mammy Yokum, Dennis the Menace, and Hurray for Andy Capp!