Captain America and the crusade against evil
Subtitle: the dilemma of zealous nationalism
By: Robert Jewett and John Shelton Lawrence.
Contributors: Lawrence, John Shelton.
Publisher: W.B. Eerdmans
Published: 2003
Place of publication: Grand Rapids, Mich
Language: eng
Number of pages: 392
Subjects: Messianism, Political -- United States; Millennialism -- United States; Jihad; War on Terrorism, 2001-; Civil religion -- United States; Islam -- Relations -- Christianity; Christianity and other religions -- Islam; United States -- Foreign relations -- 2001-; United States -- Foreign relations -- 20th century; United States -- Politics and government -- 2001-
Description: "Arguing that the superhero is the antidemocratic counterpart of the classical "monomyth" described by Joseph Campbell, the authors show that the American version of the monomyth derives from tales of redemption. In settings where institutions and elected leaders always fail, the American monomyth offers heroes who combine elements of the selfless servant with the lone, zealous crusader who destroys evil.

Taking the law into their own hands, these unelected figures assume total power to rid the community of its enemies, thus comprising a distinctively American form of pop fascism.".

"Drawing widely from books, films, TV programs, video games, and places of superhero worship on the World Wide Web, the authors trace the development of the American superhero during the twentieth century and expose the mythic patterns behind the most successful elements of pop culture.

Lawrence and Jewett challenge readers to reconsider the relationship of this myth to traditional religious and social values, and they show how, ultimately, these antidemocratic narratives gain the spiritual loyalties of their audiences, in the process inviting them to join in crusades against evil.".

"Finally, the authors pose this provocative question: Can we take a holiday from democracy in our lives of fantasy and entertainment while preserving our commitment to democratic institutions and ways of life?"--BOOK JACKET.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 327-371) and indexes.