This is a co-taught course with Dr. Yuki Schwartz taught at Claremont School of Theology
Join us on a captivating journey through pop culture as we explore the fascinating world of superheroes, villains, and monsters from comic books and movies. This course delves into how these iconic figures teach us about nationalism, collective identity, and divine power.

Drawing parallels with ancient narratives from the New Testament, we’ll uncover the archetypes of heroes and villains and analyze how they reflect and challenge societal norms. Through close readings and critical analyses, we’ll examine themes of race, gender, sexuality, and more, gaining valuable insights into the complex intersections of theology, mythology, and contemporary culture.


Together, we’ll develop skills in close reading and thoughtful analysis, with a special focus on comics, movies, and media from Asian and Asian North American contexts. Join us for engaging discussions and comparative explorations as we unlock the deeper meanings behind the stories that shape our world.