The Fierce Legacy of Bitchy: A Cartoonist’s Unapologetic Voice

The recent publication of Roberta Gregory’s collected works on Midge McCracken, aka “Bitchy,” has reignited a conversation about the power of subversive humor and satire in comics. This is not just a celebration of a classic series but an opportunity to reflect on the impact of Gregory’s work and its relevance in contemporary culture.

Gregory introduced Midge, a grotesquely lovable anti-hero, in a turning point for feminist independent comics. By exaggerating tropes like anger, lust, and resentment into comedic types, she created a character that defied male-centric standards of beauty and decorum. The results were both hilarious and incisive, laying waste to the casual cruelty and sexism prevalent in 1990s workplace culture.

What sets Bitchy apart is its ability to balance humor with unflinching commentary on social issues. Gregory’s use of satire was a deliberate choice, aimed at tackling topics that were often avoided or sanitized in mainstream comics. The character’s origins as a “date from hell” joke belie the depth and complexity of her subsequent storylines, which explored themes like abortion, workplace politics, and toxic friendships.

Gregory’s own experiences growing up in a conservative household informed her approach to storytelling. By drawing inspiration from her upbringing and interests, she created characters that were both relatable and abrasive. Midge’s refusal to conform to societal norms was mirrored in Gregory’s own pioneering work in underground comix during the 1970s.

The influence of Bitchy can be seen in contemporary entertainment, where “messy female antihero” series like Girls, Fleabag, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and You’re the Worst drew inspiration from Gregory’s irreverent style. This is not coincidental; the subversive spirit of Bitchy has become a defining feature of modern comedy.

However, there are concerns that the publication of Bitchy: The Exasperating Existence of Midge McCracken may distort Gregory’s legacy and importance in comics. Her pioneering work in underground comix, queer themes, and more serious strips should not be overshadowed by her most famous creation. As Gregory herself notes, having a complete collection of the series risks reducing her broader impact to a single iconic character.

The publication of Bitchy is also a reminder that subversive humor and satire are as relevant today as they were in the 1990s. The themes tackled in the series – sexism, narcissism, consumerism – continue to plague modern society. Gregory’s decision to tackle these issues head-on has left a lasting legacy, one that continues to inspire new generations of cartoonists and comedians.

What this means for the future of comics is uncertain, but it’s clear that Bitchy will remain an important touchstone for those seeking unapologetic satire and subversive humor. As Gregory continues to evolve as an artist – she is currently working on a graphic biography of Clara Schumann – it’s essential to recognize her contributions to the medium as a whole.

The Fierce Legacy of Bitchy is not just about celebrating a classic series but acknowledging the impact of Gregory’s unapologetic voice on the world of comics. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern society, it’s reassuring to know that there are creators like Roberta Gregory who refuse to shy away from controversy and challenge societal norms through their work.