
Superhero Rhetoric from Exceptionalism to Globalization
Up, Up and ...Abroad
Michael Arthur Soares(Author)
Lexington Books (Publisher)
Published on 15. September 2024
Book
Hardback
218 pages
978-1-6669-5030-4 (ISBN)
Description
Superhero Rhetoric from Exceptionalism to Globalization: Up, Up and ...Abroad examines superhero narratives through the lens of American rhetoric and globalization. Michael Arthur Soares illustrates how deeply intertwined superhero narratives are with American political culture by analyzing, on the one hand, the rhetoric of American exceptionalism and the representation of American presidents in superhero narratives and, on the other, the prevalence of superhero rhetoric in speeches by American politicians. Turning toward the global mobility of the superhero genre, Soares then offers further insight into the ways in which cultural contexts inform transformations of superheroes and their narratives around the world and how American filmmakers have adjusted their narratives to guarantee their global reach and ability to place films in the global marketplace. Finally, the author considers real-life examples of licensed superhero iconography embodied by individuals around the world who seek to make change in their communities. Ultimately, the chapters examine the journey of superhero rhetoric and how it reaches out to global audiences, across cultural borders and back again.
Reviews / Votes
Michael Arthur Soares's Superhero Rhetoric from Exceptionalism to Globalization: Up, Up, and ... Abroad is an exceptional scholarly work that combines rigorous academic analysis with an engaging and highly readable narrative, making it both intellectually stimulating and accessible. [ . . . ] By integrating peer-reviewed scholarship, film critiques, and media analysis, the book challenges conventional superhero studies, encouraging researchers to explore new perspectives. -- Md Abu Hena Pohil, Northern Illinois University, USA * The Journal of Popular Culture * Soares cleverly asks what happens when superhero rhetoric escapes from the confines of the comic book genre. His varied answers to that intriguing question-in arenas ranging from American politics to international relations - are creative, timely, and insightful. * James Kimble, Professor of Communication at Seton Hall University, USA * Soares is critical of the problems and misconceptions resulting from superhero rhetoric, particularly regarding political manipulation and cultural imperialism. Nonetheless, he observes its potential for inspiration, altruism, and international understanding. Relevant photo illustrations and an index support this study. Recommended. Undergraduates through faculty. * Choice *More details
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Publishing group
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Illustrations
10 b/w illustrations
Dimensions
Height: 235 mm
Width: 157 mm
Thickness: 16 mm
Weight
473 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-6669-5030-4 (9781666950304)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

E-Book
09/2024
1st Edition
Lexington Books
€90.99
Available for download

E-Book
09/2024
1st Edition
Lexington Books
€90.99
Available for download
Person
Michael Arthur Soares, PhD, is an independent scholar and instructor of English.
Content
1. Superman from American Exceptionalism to Globalization
2. All the President's Supermen
3. With Great Power Comes Great Superhero Rhetoric
4. Up, Up and ... Abroad: Iconographic Identities of Globalized Superheroes
5. The World's Too Small: Globalization and Cultural Uptake of Superheroes
6. Fight the Power: Safeguarding and Resistance to the Superhero Powers That Be
7. Superheroes at Large: Uptake of Superhero Rhetoric in Real-life
Bibliography
About the Author
Index
2. All the President's Supermen
3. With Great Power Comes Great Superhero Rhetoric
4. Up, Up and ... Abroad: Iconographic Identities of Globalized Superheroes
5. The World's Too Small: Globalization and Cultural Uptake of Superheroes
6. Fight the Power: Safeguarding and Resistance to the Superhero Powers That Be
7. Superheroes at Large: Uptake of Superhero Rhetoric in Real-life
Bibliography
About the Author
Index