Tekstpanel

Tekstpanel is a term used primarily in Scandinavian comics and graphic storytelling to describe a narrative device that combines visual illustration with a block of text that serves several functions. Unlike the classic speech bubble, the tekstpanel occupies its own space in the layout, often placed at the bottom or side of an image. The text can provide exposition, internal monologue, descriptive narration, or background information that is too detailed for the main panel’s action sequence.

The concept emerged in the mid‑20th century as part of a broader movement to experiment with comic form. Early Swedish and Norwegian comic artists adopted tekstpanel to streamline storytelling, especially in lengthy strips where dialogue could clutter the visual flow. By separating narrative description from dialogue, artists achieved clearer pacing and allowed readers to focus on the illustration before assimilating supplementary information.

In contemporary usage, tekstpanel remains common in educational comics, political cartoons, and children's picture books where clarity is paramount. Digital comics may render tekstpanel as a distinct overlay or a sidebar panel to accommodate screen real estate. Some modern webcomics experiment with dynamic tekstpanel elements that fade or expand in response to reader interaction, blending traditional art with interactive media.

While the term is most frequently encountered in Scandinavian publications, its functional equivalent can be found worldwide under names such as “narrative caption” or “explanatory panel.” The practice underscores the hybrid nature of comics, marrying text and image to enhance storytelling. The tekstpanel’s enduring utility lies in its ability to deliver context without interrupting the visual narrative rhythm, thereby making complex plots more accessible to a broad audience.