Throughout the Tin Tin readings but particularly in Tin Tin in America, Herge seems to include a critique of big business and capitalism in general. Twice Tin Tin is immediately mobbed by men seeking to take advantage of his success. The first occurs when Tin Tin discovers oil and businessmen, presumably developers, fanatically try to outbid one another in order to exploit his discovery. Upon learning that Tin Tin does not own the land the Native Americans are evicted and a metropolis is almost instantly erected. In this sequence Herge dedicates one frame to the construction of a building that he specifically labels "Cactus and Petroleum Bank Inc." which gives the reader a name to pin on those who are mistreating the Native Americans.
Later in Tin Tin in America, Tin Tin is very literally saved by collective bargaining. After falling onto an assembly line Tin Tin is rescued by the fact that the workers decided to go on strike. While, the workers are portrayed in a positive manner the plant and the ownership are portrayed negatively. Tin Tin enters the complex through what appears to be a junk yard with a statue in the background engraved "coca-cola." The plant is also shown to be partaking in a number of shady practices including knowingly putting harmful materials into their product.
Taken in conjunction the depictions of American business offer a very negative portrayal of capitalism and those who benefit from it.
To support your point, it seems like Tin Tin remains immune to capitalist influence. Though he has made large amounts of money during his time as a reporter, he doesn't flaunt wealth. Tin Tin illustrates a man on whom money holds no sway. He is equal and opposite to capitalists through the works.
ReplyDeleteI think the first point is as much an indictment of America's treatment of Native Americans as it is of capitalism. Maybe that was your point, but I think the sequence following Tintin admitting he doesn't own the land is a commentary on how quickly Native American's were cast aside. Yes, it was because Americans were hungry for money, but it also illustrates their complete lack of interest in Native American interests or life in general.
ReplyDelete