Tim Hanley Knihy

Not All Supermen explores the complex history of the superhero genre, with its troubling undercurrent of sexism and toxic masculinity while supposedly espousing truth, justice, and valor for generations of fans.

"An exploration of the complex DC Comics character and her many incarnations in comics, television, and movies"--

We think we know Betty and Veronica from Archie comics, but we don't. This book examines how these two female characters have evolved over the decades, from stereotypes of the 1940s to more sophisticated representations in recent years. They are far more than just Archie's girlfriends, and this book explores the depths of these cultural icons.

"With her golden lasso and her bullet-deflecting bracelets, Wonder Woman is a beloved icon of female strength in a world of male superheroes. But this close look at her history portrays a complicated heroine who is more than just a female Superman. The original Wonder Woman was ahead of her time, advocating female superiority and the benefits of matriarchy in the 1940s. At the same time, her creator filled the comics with titillating bondage imagery, and Wonder Woman was tied up as often as she saved the world. In the 1950s, Wonder Woman begrudgingly continued her superheroic mission, wishing she could settle down with her boyfriend instead, all while continually hinting at hidden lesbian leanings. While other female characters stepped forward as women's lib took off in the late 1960s, Wonder Woman fell backwards, losing her superpowers and flitting from man to man. Ms. magazine and Lynda Carter restored Wonder Woman's feminist strength in the 1970s, turning her into a powerful symbol as her checkered past was quickly forgotten. Exploring this lost history as well as her modern incarnations adds new dimensions to the world's most beloved female character, and Wonder Woman Unbound delves into her comic book and its spin-offs as well as the myriad motivations of her creators to showcase the peculiar journey that led to Wonder Woman's iconic status"--

Focusing on the evolution of female superheroes, this book delves into the rich histories of the women who have portrayed Batgirl over sixty years. It highlights their impact on popular culture and the significance of representation in comics and media. By examining their roles both on and off the page, the narrative reveals the challenges and triumphs faced by these characters and the fandom they inspire, emphasizing the importance of female representation in the superhero genre.

"A comprehensive history of the beloved comic book character."--Provided by publisher.