Batman and the Multiplicity of Identity: The Contemporary Comic Book Superhero as Cultural Nexus Contributor(s): Brown, Jeffrey A. (Author) |
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ISBN: 1138302856 ISBN-13: 9781138302853 Publisher: Routledge OUR PRICE: $144.50 Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats Published: December 2018 |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - Comics & Graphic Novels | Superheroes (see Also Fiction - Superheroes) - Social Science | Media Studies - Social Science | Ethnic Studies - General |
Series: Routledge Advances in Comics Studies |
Physical Information: 0.56" H x 6" W x 9" (1.07 lbs) 226 pages |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: Concentrating primarily on contemporary depictions of Batman in the comic books, this book analyzes why Batman is so immensely popular right now in America and globally, and how the fictional Dark Knight reveals both new cultural concerns and longstanding beliefs about American values. The organizing premise is that while Batman is perceived as a very clearly defined character, he is open to a wide range of interpretations and depictions in the comics (what Henry Jenkins refers to as multiplicities), each of which allows access to different cultural issues. The idea of Batman functions as an anchoring point out of which multiple Batmen, or Batman-like characters, can occupy different positions: Grim Batman, Gay Batman, Female Batman, Black Batman, Cute Batman, and so on. Each iteration opens up a discussion of different cultural issues pertinent to modern society, such as sexuality, ethnicity, feminism and familial relationships. |