Why have Jews created so many superheroes? This introductory course examines the intertwined histories of North American Jewish communities and the comic book industry. From Superman's creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster (originally Segalovich and Shusterowich), to Batman's Bill Finger and Bob Kane (Kahn), to Marvel's Jack Kirby (Kurtzberg) and Stan Lee (Lieber), American superheroes emerged from the pens and inks of Jewish artists who transformed comics into both mass entertainment and serious literature.

In this course, we will examine significant comics and graphic novels from the 1930s to the present to explore how Jewish identity and the diaspora experience shape superhero storytelling. Drawing on frameworks from cultural studies, rabbinic tradition, media studies, and postcolonial theory, we will explore themes of assimilation, otherness, and moral responsibility. No prior knowledge of comics or Jewish studies required.

Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.