What Does it Mean When Something is 'Canon' in Modern Multiauthor Media?

The concept of 'canon' has a rich history, originating from the Bible where it referred to a list of approved books. However, in recent decades, this term has seen a significant shift, particularly in the context of multi-author narratives and media franchises. This article explores the evolution of 'canon,' highlighting its importance and the challenges it poses in contemporary storytelling.

From Religious to Fictive Canons

Canon once denoted a sacred or authoritative list of literature, most famously in the Bible. Historically, these canonized works were without dispute, representing a settled and official body of text. However, the contemporary understanding of 'canon' has expanded to include fictional worlds created by multiple authors.

Early Multi-Author Worlds

While there are historical examples of shared narrative spaces, such as the King Arthur legends, they were not subject to strict canonical control. In these cases, no single entity owned the rights or governed the consistent development of the narrative.

Author-Created Worlds and Canon

The introduction of canon to multi-author fictional worlds, like those of J.R.R. Tolkien, Robert Howard, and C.S. Lewis, marks a significant departure. Tolkien's published works, such as the The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, are considered canonical. However, the question of what constitutes 'canon' becomes more complex when considering his posthumously published works like The Silmarillion.

Inconsistencies in the Canon

Tolkien deliberately rewrote and edited his works, and even an authoritative body like the Oxford English Dictionary could not entirely resolve contradictions. He also challenged the notion of a single, cohesive narrative by presenting different versions of stories, as seen in his works based on Arthurian romances.

While official canon is important, fan engagement and creativity have pushed the boundaries of what constitutes 'canon.' Fanfiction, while often outside the official narrative, plays a significant role in the collective interpretation of a fictional universe. However, this creative freedom can create its own chaos.

Modern Multi-Author Media: Star Trek and Doctor Who

In the realm of televised series, the distinction between canon and non-canon becomes even more nuanced. Showrunners like Gene Roddenberry of Star Trek established strict rules to maintain continuity. Conversely, series like Doctor Who, helmed by multiple writers, often resulted in varying interpretations and canons that were left open to fan debate and reinterpretation.

Autistic Fanatics and the Obsession with Canon

Some fans, particularly those with traits on the autism spectrum, have a deep and meticulous interest in maintaining a consistent and coherent universe. This can lead to passionate debates and online communities dedicated to preserving and debating the 'official' canon.

Complexity of Multi-Author Universes

For series like Batman, Spiderman, or Superman, which span multiple authors and various mediums (books, films, comics, TV shows), the concept of a single, overarching canon becomes more challenging. Each adaptation or addition to the universe may or may not align with the existing canon, leading to complex and sometimes conflicting narratives.

Conclusion

The term 'canon' in modern multi-author media reflects the constant tension between creativity and consistency. While it provides a framework for understanding and interpreting narratives, it also opens up endless possibilities for fan engagement and adaptability. Whether it's the meticulous world-building of Tolkien, the rules of Star Trek, or the diverse interpretations of Doctor Who, 'canon' remains a vital but often contentious concept in the ever-evolving landscape of fictional universes.