Because comics depend on immediacy in recognizing the content of each panel, comic artists often play on stereotypes to maintain that level of urgency in communication with readers. In Tang's novel, the character cousin Chin-kee is a perfect example of the embodiment of a stereotype. He introduces himself on page 48 in a single panel that spreads the whole page and exclaims "HARRO AMELLICA!" wearing a typical Asian garment, with his hands clasped together in front of his chest. Cousin Chin-kee's yellowy skin, slit eyes and flat looking nose also add to our impression of his character. Tang holds no barriers in conveying to the audience that Cousin Chin-kee is clearly of Asian descent, and his execution is highly effective.
Although Chin-kee's traits are iconic and the most effective way to communicate to readers, there is also the potential of Tang's creation of his character being offensive. As with discussion of any stereotype, the line is often thin between acceptable and attacking. This leads us to the question as to what methods are available for comics artists besides use of the stereotype? In other words, how would Tang pictorally demonstrate Cousin Chin-kee's race without giving him slit eyes, a distinct accent, etc? The most satisfying answer that I have come up with is that the use of stereotypes in comics is more or less inevitable, and the difference between okay and not lies within the context of the stereotype and to what degree it is taken.
As for Cousin Chin-kee's character, Tang pushed his mannerisms much farther than any other character in the novel, and displayed him in a comical way. Although it is not too far for me as a reader, I can easily see how some individuals may be left with a bad taste in their mouth because of Cousin Chin-kee.
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