Jacques Reidy

My thesis was an analysis of the evolution of multicultural representation in the superhero genre from comic books to the silver screen. More specifically, my thesis examined the rise of the first black superhero known as ‘The Black Panther’ from his beginnings as a side character in a 1966 Fantastic Four comic to the eventual release of his own movie in 2018 that grossed over a billion dollars. The goal of my thesis was to highlight the importance of representation through the lens of the American comic book; a medium that was historically only written and drawn by white men, however eventually adapted to the changing tide of modern society and would cater for a more modern and diverse audience. The three main chapters in my thesis break down the evolution of the superhero genre chronologically from the 1960s to the late 2010s. Key arguments such as how consumerism’s stereotyping of and lack of knowledge on African Americans has delayed the progression of black culture. As well as how damaging inauthenticity can be when writing for and drawing other races, religions and cultures. Why representation was so important for children and adults alike was prominently featured in my thesis.