The graphic novel is the most exciting literary and artistic form to emerge during the past thirty years. One of the most inspired uses of this new form has been the creation of high-quality adaptations of literary classics. Unlike the previous abridged and simplified comic book adaptations which were aimed at younger readers, most new graphic novel adaptations are created for adults, and can capture the subtlety and complexity of any literary work, no matter how sophisticated. The expert contributors to this book--the first and the only volume to be exclusively devoted to graphic novel adaptations of literary works--demonstrate how the graphic novel brings a new way of seeing and understanding the classics, including the writings of Homer, Poe, Flaubert, Conrad and Kafka, among many others. High school and college students and teachers will find these essays exciting, informative, and useful.