The mythology of the superhero

Superheroes have been an integral part of popular society for decades and have given rise to a collective mythology familiar in popular culture worldwide.

Though scholars and fans have recognized and commented on this mythology, its structure has gone largely unexplored.

This book provides a model and lexicon for identifying the superhero mythos.

The author examines the myth in several narratives-including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Green Arrow and Beowulf-and discusses such diverse characters as Batman, Wolverine, Invincible and John Constantine.