I find it interesting that Seth feels more “unsettled” by Maus than Watchmen or DKR.  Sure, Maus handles a subject matter that is arguably one of the greater travesties of all time, but, at least in my opinion/experience, Watchmen and DKR handle a subject matter that seems more pertinent (‘modern’ if you will).  Also, and I’ll risk the insensitivy of saying this:  as a consumer of literature, history, etc., etc. throughout my education, I’ve become just the slightest bit desensitized to the setting.  Perhaps it’s the undying cynic in me, but think about it:  when you want a story with a huge emotional impact, there’s no more perfect villain than a Nazi, and no better hero than a Holocaust survivor.

However…

The way Spiegelman tells his story; through the use of the comics form with simplistic iconic art and the modularity of the narrative, constantly skipping back and forth between ‘Present’ and WWII, is what I think makes it something extremely special and worthwhile.  Vladek is a real character, with real motivations, emotions, and complex relationships who faces difficult conundrums in his day to day life as a Jew during WWII, not simply the ‘survivor’ archetype. 

Simultaneously, we are unsure of Art’s intentions.  Is this work meant as a tribute to his father?  Or is it just a vehicle toward fame and fortune?  Or are these books meant to honor entirely different people (as evidenced by the dedications)?  Are his motives selfish or selfless?  And are they less pure than Vladek’s motivations, because they aren’t as necessary as the basest instinct of survival?

Obviously I’ve strayed from the original path.  But that’s the nature of a response, and the beauty of the mind.