The Superhero Costume Identity and Disguise in Fact and Fiction [Paperback]

Costume defines the superhero, disguising and distinguishing him or her from the civilian alter ego. The often garish garb expresses a hero's otherness and empowers its wearers to seek a primal form of justice.

This book provides the first interdisciplinary analysis of the superhero costume and investigates wide-ranging issues such as identity, otherness, ritual dress and disguise. Analysis focuses on the implications of wearing superhero costume, exploring interpretations of the costumed hero and the extent to which the costume defines his or her role. Using examples across various media (comic books, film, and television) with case studies including The X-Men, Watchmen, real-life superheroes such as Phoenix Jones and Pussy Riot, and audience activities such as cosplay,The Superhero Costumepresents new perspectives on the increasingly popular genre.

A lively and thorough account of superhero fashions throughout history,The Superhero Costumewill be essential reading for students of visual culture, popular culture, fashion and cultural studies.

List of Illustrations
Introduction

Part 1: Origins and Evolution

Chapter 1: Superman: Codifying the Superhero Wardrobe
Physical Labour and the Construction of Masculinity
Performance in Combat
The Costume as Biography
Superman the Brand
The Archetype and his Imitators

Chapter 2: Identity, Role and The Mask
The Mask and Issues of Identity
The Identity of the Mask
Power, Authority and the Privileged Few
Face-ism
How Dress Defines Role
The Deceit of the Masquerade

Chapter 3: Evolution and Adaptation: Form v. Function
'Sucked Into Silliness'
Real-life References: The historical and the sporting.
Technology and Utility
The Pursuit of Credibility: Hyperrealism and assemblage
The Decline of the Costume

Part 2: Identities and Ideals

Chapter 4: Wearing The Flag: Patriotism and globalization
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