Includes bibliographical references (p. [157]-163) and index.
Contents:
pt. I. Arguments held against war, weapon and superhero play - and some responses -- The argument that war and weapon play almost automatically leads to increased aggression and violence -- The argument that superheroes equate to the normalization or glorification of violence -- The argument that superheroes offer up negative, stereotypical and destructive role-models of masculinity and femininity -- pt. II. Rethinking superhero and conflict play -- Theoretical understandings of children's moral development -- From 'rough-and-tumble' play to superhero and conflict play -- Superhero and conflict play and the development of co-operation, empathy and sense of community -- Superhero and conflict play and children's sense of self and self-worth -- The moral themes that lie behind superhero and conflict play -- pt. III. Exploring superhero narratives -- Superman : the god-like being -- Batman : darkness within the Dark Knight -- The X-Men : the rejected group -- Conclusion : The merit of superheroes and superhero play.
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.