IAS Laughter: Mafalda - A Social and Political History of Latin America's Global Comic
06 February 2020, 6:00 pm–8:00 pm

Since its creation in 1964, readers from all over the world have loved the comic 'Mafalda', primarily because of the sharp wit and rebellious nature of its title character—a four-year-old girl who is wise beyond her years.
This event is free.
Event Information
Open to
- All
Availability
- Yes
Cost
- Free
Organiser
-
Paulo Drinot, Claire Lindsay and Lucy Bollington
Location
-
IAS Common GroundGround Floor, South Wing UCLGower StreetLondonWC1E 6BT
Through Mafalda, Argentine cartoonist Joaquín Salvador Lavado explores complex questions about class identity, modernization, and state violence. In Mafalda: A Social and Political History of Latin America's Global Comic—first published in Argentina in 2014 and appearing here in English for the first time—Isabella Cosse analyzes the comic's vast appeal across multiple generations. From Mafalda breaking the fourth wall to speak directly to readers to express her opposition to the 1966 Argentine coup, to Spanish students' protest signs bearing her face, to the comic's cult status in Korea, Cosse provides insights into the cartoon's production, circulation, and incorporation into social and political conversations. Analyzing how Mafalda reflects generational conflicts, gender, modernization, the Cold War, authoritarianism, neoliberalism, and much more, Cosse demonstrates the unexpected power of humor to shape revolution and resistance.
Please note that there may be photography and/or audio recording at some events and that admission is on a first come first served basis. Please follow this FAQ link for more information. All IAS events are free but you can support the IAS here.
About the Speaker
Isabella Cosse
Independent researcher for the National Science and Technology Research Council and the University of Buenos Aires. She is the author of numerous books, including Pareja, sexualidad y familia en los años sesenta. All welcome.