From Moses to Rambo: New C.W. Post Course Explores the
Evolution of the Superhero
December 22, 1998 -- What does it take to be a superhero? What could
Moses or Tarzan have in common with Jackie Chan, Luke Skywalker and Sylvester
Stallone? Are the Greek heroes of mythology different from the ones we
celebrate today?
Since the beginning of time, superheroes in one form or another have
mesmerized our consciousness and thrilled our imaginations. Beginning in
the Spring 1999 semester, students at the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island
University in Brookville will be able to explore the development of the
superhero in world literature and film from ancient times to today.
The course, "The Making of the Superhero," will discuss how
these superheroes embody the values and aspirations of their respective
cultures, according to Professor Sheila Gunther. "We will focus on
heroes from ancient times - such as those in the Bible, The Iliad and The
Odyssey - to characters in modern day literature and film, including Tarzan,
Rambo, Superman, and the futuristic heroes in Blade Runner and Johnny Mnemonic,"
said Professor Gunther. "Students will learn how superheroes emerged
and why we are so fascinated by them."
This three credit undergraduate course runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays from 10:10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The first class starts on Wednesday,
January 20, 1999. The course is open to current students as well as the
general public. There is a fee for the course.
For additional information, contact Professor Sheila Gunther at (516)
299-2385.
For more information call the C.W. Post Public
Relations Office at (516) 299-2333 or e-mail pr@cwpost.liu.edu
or send mail to: Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus, 720 Northern
Blvd., Brookville, New York 11548-1300.
