The visual rewriting of Nancy Drew: an analysis of the cover art of the Nancy Drew Mystery Series from 1930-1999

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Last Modified
  • February 28, 2019
Creator
  • Stowe, Jennifer
    • Affiliation: School of Information and Library Science
Abstract
  • This study provides a qualitative visual analysis of selected covers from the Nancy Drew Mystery Series from the 1930's until the present. The analysis was conducted using research on non-verbal communication and facial expression as well as research done on composition and perception in order to show a progression in the way that Nancy Drew's character was portrayed. There are five characterizations of Nancy Drew that become apparent in performing a visual analysis of the artwork. The 1930's Nancy Drew is characterized as bold, capable and independent. She actively seeks out clues, and is shown in the center of the compositions. In subsequent characterizations Nancy Drew becomes progressively weaker, less in control. By the 1990's there is a complete reversal in the representation of her character. She is often shown being chased or threatened, the confidence of the 1930's being replaced by fear.
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  • In Copyright
Advisor
  • Sturm, Brian
Degree granting institution
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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  • 47 p.
Access right
  • Open access
Date uploaded
  • December 10, 2010

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file details The visual rewriting of Nancy Drew: an analysis of the cover art of the Nancy Drew Mystery Series from 1930 - 1999. 2019-05-13 Public Download