Introducing Superhero Tales into the Classroom: Greek Myth and the Changing Nature of Story

Abstract: In this article I explore how superhero tales can be used in the university classroom to help students think about the changing nature of Greek myth and narrative. In doing so I examine a handful of Batman tales in light of Walter Burkert’s ideas about myth. Applying these concepts to such tales allows students to get a better sense of how stories can adapt over time to their audiences. I conclude by offering practical suggestions on how to introduce this topic into the classroom as a fun and contemporary hook to get students thinking about how myth functions in the world, both ancient and modern.