The discourse structure of the cartoon text

Abstract

The cartoon is a form of communication which involves the interplay of the verbal (written text) and the non-verbal (caricatures). It usually provides an opportunity for comment or ridicule of certain undesirable behaviours in society and has become an essential component of newspapers. The authors of this paper examine features of discourse in cartoons which aid comprehension among other (linguistic) features and make cartoons socially appropriate and relevant as a means of communication.