Comic Book Nation

Ch. 1

How was Superman a reflection of 1930s America?  In other words, what themes did Superman comics emphasize and who were the bad guys?

What were the major differences between Batman and Superman?

Why was Wonder Woman character unique and complex?  How liberating was she as a character?

How specifically did comic books reflect or contribute to New Deal America of the 30s?

Why did parents and intellectuals object to comic books in the 30s?

Ch. 2

How did WWII affect the comic book industry? 

How did the comic book industry attempt to improve its image during this time?

What were the messages and themes emphasized by the “jungle” comic books?

How did outbreak of war in Europe reveal itself in comic books? What did some comic books suggest that US do?

 How did comic books change regarding the war after Pearl Harbor?

 How did comics books portrayal of Japanese and Nazis differ?  What was surprising or different about how they handled Russia?