Includes bibliographical references, filmography and index.
Contents:
Introduction: A myth in the making and making the case for a myth -- The ritual birth, and death, of a superhero: rites of passage and initiation in the MCU origin stories -- A shadow follows: the MCU superheroes versus their darker selves -- Impurity and pollution in the MCU's phase two -- Families divided: internecine and intergenerational war in the MCU -- Death stalks the MCU: Thanos among the monsters of the MCU and world mythology -- The superhero's quest: journeys to the underworld and the final battle against death -- Conclusion: A myth for this (and every) age.
Summary:
"Breaking box office records around the globe, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has achieved an unparalleled level of success and gripped the imaginations of fans across the world, raising the films to a higher level of narrative: myth. Using the field of religious studies, this is the first book to analyze the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a modern myth, comparing it to epics, symbols, rituals, and stories from multiple world religious traditions. By exploring how the characters and events of the MCU resemble religious themes and ancient mythic stories, this book places the exploits of Iron Man, Captain America, Black Panther, and the other stars of the Marvel films, alongside the legends of Achilles, Gilgamesh, Arjuna, the Buddha, and many others. It examines their origin stories and rites of passage, the monsters, shadow-selves, and familial conflicts they contend with, and the symbols of death and the battle against it that stalk them at every turn. As a result, we can appreciate how the films deal with timeless human dilemmas and questions, evoking an enduring sense of adventure and wonder common across world mythic traditions."-Provided by publisher. Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.