**What are the primary characteristics that distinguish Franco-Belgian comics from American or Japanese comics, in terms of style, format, and storytelling?
How have modern European comics evolved in terms of themes and styles, and what are some emerging trends or notable contemporary graphic novels in the Franco-Belgian tradition?
What role do comic festivals, such as the Angoulême International Comics Festival in France, play in promoting Franco-Belgian comics within Europe and internationally?
Can you explain the significance of the "ligne claire" art style pioneered by Hergé in Franco-Belgian comics, and how has it influenced other artists and genres?
5. **How have European comic conventions and festivals, like the Angoulême International Comics Festival, influenced the popularity and evolution of Franco-Belgian comics?
3. **How have Franco-Belgian comics such as "Tintin," "Asterix," and "The Smurfs" contributed to global pop culture, and what themes do they commonly explore?