In terms of character portrayal, the graphic novel uses images to emphasize certain features or emotions of the characters. While the original book describes them in words, the graphic version can show the fear or determination on the faces of the handmaids directly. Also, it can use color schemes to set the mood. Darker colors might be used to represent the gloominess of Gilead, which is an added dimension compared to the original book.
The graphic novel can show the setting more vividly. For example, the drab and oppressive environment of Gilead can be depicted through detailed drawings, which might be harder to fully imagine just from the written description in the original book.
The graphic novel has the advantage of visual storytelling. It can condense some of the complex descriptions in the original book into a single frame. For instance, a scene of a ceremony can be shown in one picture in the graphic novel, highlighting the power dynamics and the discomfort of the situation. However, the original book may have more in - depth exploration of the characters' inner thoughts, which the graphic novel might have to simplify to fit the visual medium.
In the graphic novel, the visuals can directly show the oppressive environment. For example, the drab and uniform - like clothing of the handmaids is clearly depicted, which gives a more immediate sense of their lack of individuality compared to just reading about it in the original novel.
In the graphic novel, the pacing can be different. Scenes might be presented more quickly or slowly depending on the layout and the artist's interpretation. The visual representation of the setting, like the red and white outfits of the handmaids, becomes more prominent and helps to set the mood more directly than in the book.
The graphic novel uses visuals to enhance the story. For example, the facial expressions of the characters can convey emotions more directly compared to just reading the text in the book. It may also simplify some complex descriptions in the book for a more visual - based understanding.
In the graphic novel, the visuals can immediately show the bleak and oppressive world of 1984. For example, the drab colors used can enhance the feeling of a joyless society. In contrast to the original novel, where you have to imagine the settings, the graphic novel gives you a direct visual of the dilapidated buildings and the omnipresent telescreens.
The graphic novel uses images to enhance the mood. In the original text, you have to imagine the desolation of the farm after the pigs' rule. But in the graphic novel, the artist can show the dilapidated buildings, the thin and overworked animals, etc. Also, the visual representation of the commandments on the wall changing over time is more impactful. It's a clear visual cue of how the pigs are subverting the original ideals of the revolution.
The main difference is the format. The graphic novel uses visuals along with text, while the original might be just text. The graphic novel can show things directly through pictures, like the setting or the appearance of the characters, which in the original work you have to imagine from the description.
The graphic novel might use visual elements to emphasize certain aspects more strongly. For example, the oppressive atmosphere of the setting can be shown more vividly through the illustrations. It may also simplify some of the complex narrative parts of the book to make it more accessible in a visual medium.
The graphic novel's visual representation allows for a more immediate understanding of the power dynamics between the animals. When we see the pigs standing on a raised platform while the other animals look up at them, it clearly shows the hierarchy that has been established. In the original text, we have to infer this from the descriptions. Moreover, the graphic novel can use visual symbols more effectively. For example, the changing of the commandments on the barn wall can be shown as a big, bold visual element that draws the reader's attention and emphasizes the pigs' manipulation of the rules.
The graphic novel may have to condense some parts of the story. The original novel can be very detailed and explore characters' inner thoughts deeply. The graphic novel might simplify this to fit the visual medium. However, it can also add new dimensions. For example, the use of color can convey different emotions or statuses in the story that might not be as obvious in the written novel.
The graphic novel may have a more visual interpretation. It can show the jungle and the animals in a more vivid way compared to the original book which relies mainly on text descriptions.