Title
Mutants and Mystics: Science Fiction, Superhero Comics, and the Paranormal,Used
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In many ways, twentiethcentury America was the land of superheroes and science fiction. From Superman and Batman to the Fantastic Four and the XMen, these popculture juggernauts, with their 'powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men,' thrilled readers and audiencesand simultaneously embodied a host of our dreams and fears about modern life and the onrushing future.But that's just scratching the surface, says Jeffrey Kripal. In Mutants and Mystics, Kripal offers a brilliantly insightful account of how comic book heroes have helped their creators and fans alike explore and express a wealth of paranormal experiences ignored by mainstream science. Delving deeply into the work of major figures in the fieldfrom Jack Kirbys cosmic superhero sagas and Philip K. Dicks futuristic headtrips to Alan Moores sex magic and Whitley Striebers communion with visitorsKripal shows how creators turned to science fiction to convey the reality of the inexplicable and the paranormal they experienced in their lives. Expanded consciousness found its language in the metaphors of scifiincredible powers, unprecedented mutations, timeloops and vast intergalactic intelligencesand the deeper influences of mythology and religion that these in turn drew from; the wildly creative work that followed caught the imaginations of millions. Moving deftly from Cold War science and Fredric Wertham's anticomics crusade to gnostic revelation and alien abduction, Kripal spins out a hidden history of American culture, rich with mythical themes and shot through with an awareness that there are other realities far beyond our everyday understanding.A bravura performance, beautifully illustrated in full color throughout and brimming over with incredible personal stories, Mutants and Mystics is that rarest of things: a book that is guaranteed to broadenand maybe even blowyour mind.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Mutants and Mystics'? A: 'Mutants and Mystics' explores the intersection of science fiction, superhero comics, and paranormal experiences, illustrating how these genres reflect societal dreams and fears.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Mutants and Mystics'? A: The book is authored by Jeffrey Kripal, who provides insights into the cultural significance of comics and science fiction.
- Q: When was 'Mutants and Mystics' published? A: 'Mutants and Mystics' was published on December 21, 2015.
- Q: What is the format of the book? A: 'Mutants and Mystics' is available in paperback format, making it accessible for casual reading.
- Q: How many pages does 'Mutants and Mystics' have? A: The book contains 392 pages of insightful content.
- Q: Is 'Mutants and Mystics' suitable for all readers? A: 'Mutants and Mystics' is primarily aimed at readers interested in comics, science fiction, and cultural studies, but it can be appreciated by anyone curious about paranormal themes.
- Q: What type of illustrations are included in 'Mutants and Mystics'? A: The book features full-color illustrations that enhance the reading experience and complement the text.
- Q: Can 'Mutants and Mystics' help me understand the relationship between comics and paranormal experiences? A: Yes, the book delves into how comic book narratives have been used to express and explore various paranormal experiences.
- Q: Is 'Mutants and Mystics' a scholarly work? A: 'Mutants and Mystics' blends scholarly analysis with engaging narratives, making it both informative and accessible.
- Q: What are some significant topics covered in 'Mutants and Mystics'? A: The book covers topics like Cold War science, gnostic revelation, alien abduction, and the influence of mythology on popular culture.