1) Choose a topic from the two that you selected for your initial assignment.
(2) After doing extensive research on the topic and key related issues, come up with a central riddle that
your paper will answer.
(3) Choose two theorists who you think will help you answer the riddle.
(4) Do more research that is focused on elements of the riddle.
a. Try to find a number of different possible answers to the riddle.
b. Do research on how the theorists have been used to explore similar or related topics.
(5) Choose your answer.
a. Make sure your main argument requires you to give examples, provide evidence, and make an
argument.
b. There should be several arguments necessary for supporting the main argument. Write these
out.
(6) Come up with specific counterarguments. What are some problems with your argument? Is there
evidence it fails to explain?
(7) Do a little more research to address those counterarguments, and adjust your argument if necessary
based on what you have found.
(8) Write down your central argument.
(9) Write a detailed outline of your paper, complete with argument and counter-arguments.
(10) Imagine you are a reader and stare at your outline. Is it in the right order? Is this the best way to tell the
“story” you want to tell?
(11) Rewrite your outline.
(12) Write your paper.
(13) Read your paper, edit it, and proofread it.
(14) Rewrite your introduction so that it really sets up your reader for the rest of the paper.
(15) Read through your paper one more time, doing final edits.
Main Argument:
Like traditional religions, superhero stories like Marvel, DC, Movies like Narnia are contemporary mythologies that give moral and existential advice by reflecting religious archetypes, cultural values, and spiritual themes.
Riddle:
In what ways do superheroes change typical religious tropes, and how do theorists help us to understand that?—- To go a bit further—–How do superheroes modify traditional religious archetypes, and what can theorists like Frazer reveal about the reasons for and implications of these changes?
Supporting Arguments:
Superheroes as Modern Deities—-Superheroes like Superman, Thor, Lion in Narnia, Wonder Woman, and Black Panther embody archetypal symbols (e.g., justice, hope) that function similarly to religious symbol Argument: Superheroes like Superman, Thor, Wonder Woman, and Black Panther adapt and transform religious symbols and archetypes (e.g., justice, redemption, hope) for a modern audience.
1. Primary Sources: Superman (comic series), Thor (Marvel comics and films)
Secondary Sources: The Superhero Symbol: The Politics and Poetics of Superhero Comics by Christopher J. McKenna, Superheroes and Religion: An Introduction by Andrew R. Wilson
Theorist James Frazer: “The belief in supernatural beings is fundamental to religion.”
Mythic and Supernatural Elements:
Superheroes’ otherworldly and magical abilities reflect religious supernatural doctrines and satisfy a social need for transcendence. Argument: Superheroes’ supernatural powers and mythic story arcs satisfy cultural needs for transcendence, echoing spiritual and religious concepts in ways that are palatable in a secular context.
Primary Source: Doctor Strange (film) as an example of magical elements reflecting spiritual evolution.
Theorist (Frazer): “Magic is the key to understanding the origins of religion.”
Secondary Source: Superheroes and Religion: An Introduction by Andrew R. Wilson.?
Counter Argument 1:
Traditional religious beliefs have a deeper historical grounding than superhero fiction.
Possible Response to the argument:
Theorists like Frazer respond that myths and symbols change according to the demands of their era, despite the fact that traditional faiths have deeper roots. Superheroes transform spiritual ideals without replacing traditional faiths by incorporating concepts from past into contemporary secular contexts.
Counter Argument 2:
Rather than being symbols of faith, superheroes are largely used for entertainment.
Possible Response to the argument:
Although the main objective is entertainment, superheroes provide psychological and societal purposes that are consistent with Frazer’s theories on the use of myth and magic, offering a secular way to discuss morality and purpose.Geertz: “Religion is a system of symbols which acts to establish powerful, pervasive, and long-lasting moods and motivations in men.”
SOME QUOTES
Geertz: “Religious belief is a system of meaning.”
Geertz: “Theology is anthropology.”
Geertz: “A religious system is a social construct.”
Frazer: “Ritual is the means by which we make the world meaningful.”
Frazer: “Magic is the key to understanding the origins of religion.”
Frazer: “Religious beliefs are rooted in the desire to control nature.”
Frazer: “The belief in supernatural beings is fundamental to religion.”
New Attempt
