About Classic Comics

Classic Comics was a comic book series printed in the 1940s. It featured comic adaptations of classic literary novels and plays. Started in the early years of comic book evolution, Classic Comics were among the forerunners in popularizing comics to the genreal public. Although only in print under the name Classic Comics for six years, the comics quickly became collectors' items and remain so.

Time Frame

The series, which was founded as Classic Comics in October 1941, survived as a monthly publication until 1947, when it changed its name to Classics Illustrated. The run of Classic Comics spanned 34 issues, beginning with "The Three Musketeers." The original run ended in February 1947 with "The Mysterious Island." The company, known as Gilberton Company, Inc., began reprinting issues in 1943.

Features

During its six years, Classic Comics featured many great and varied examples of modern and classic literature. The works, novels and plays included pieces from around the world and various time periods. Among the fictional works put to comic were "The Three Musketeers," "The Count of Monte Cristo," "The Last of the Mohicans," "A Tale of Two Cities," "Robin Hood," "Les Miserables," "Don Quixote," "Huckleberry Finn," "Oliver Twist" and "Sherlock Holmes."

History

Classic Comics was created by publisher Albert Lewis Kanter. In October 1941, the company produced its first title, "The Three Musketeers." The series began as a 68-page issue costing 10 cents, but soon Kanter was forced to cut the comic's size. During the war, Classic Comics featured a 60-page spread instead of 68. Though the schedule was irregular, comics were printed at least four times a year until they reached a more regular schedule after changing the name to Classics Illustrated in 1947.

Identification

In an age of the dawn of comic creation, Classic Comics was known for the intricate line-drawn strips. The comics were rich in color and details, and featured very human and real figures in an age when most comics were of the unbelievable. The comics not only featured over 60 pages of story but also author profiles, educational aids, ads for upcoming titles and subscription forms. These traits were all carried over to the next run with Classics Illustrated.

Significance

Classic Comics served as a significant starting point for serious comics in the 1940s. What began as a cartooned version of literature classics continued with the legacy of Classics Illustrated, which lasted until 1971 and featured 169 titles. Today, in mint condition, Classic Comics are collectible items and can sell for thousands of dollars.