Early Stages (16th-19th Centuries):
* Preparatory Drawing: Originally, "cartoon" referred to a full-scale drawing used as a model for a painting, tapestry, or fresco. This was the primary meaning in the 16th and 17th centuries.
* Humorous Illustration: The term started to be used for humorous illustrations in the 19th century, often featuring caricatures and satire. These were typically published in newspapers and magazines.
20th Century and Beyond:
* Animated Film: The advent of animation in the early 20th century further expanded the definition of "cartoon." It came to encompass animated films, ranging from short comedic sketches to feature-length productions.
* Broader Definition: Today, "cartoon" has an even broader meaning, encompassing not just animated films but also comic strips, webcomics, and other forms of visual storytelling that rely on exaggeration, humor, and often a simplified style.
Key Developments:
* 1843: "Punch" magazine, a popular satirical journal, used "cartoon" in its title for its humorous illustrations.
* 1906: J. Stuart Blackton's "Humorous Phases of Funny Faces" is considered the first animated cartoon film.
* 1928: Walt Disney's "Steamboat Willie" marks a pivotal point in animation history, establishing the character of Mickey Mouse and paving the way for the golden age of cartoons.
In essence, the term "cartoon" has undergone a fascinating transformation over centuries. From a preliminary sketch to a form of humorous art and finally to a broad genre encompassing animation, comic strips, and other visual storytelling formats, it has evolved with the changing landscape of art and media.