Multiplicity and Cultural Representation in Transmedia Storytelling

<p>This book explores the relationship between multiplicity and representation of non-European and European-American cultures with a focus on comics and superheroes.</p><p>The author employs a combination of research methodologies including close reading of transmedia texts and interviews with transmedia storytellers and audiences to better understand the way in which diverse cultures are employed as agents of multiplicity in transmedia narratives. The book addresses both commercial franchises such as superhero narratives as well as smaller indie projects in an attempt to elucidate the way in which key cultural symbols and concepts are utilized by writers designers and producers and how these narrative choices affect audiences – both those who identify as members of the culture being represented and those who do not. Case studies include fan fiction based on Marvel’s <i>Black Panther </i>(2018) fan fiction and art created for the <i>Moana</i> (2016) and <i>Mulan</i> (2020) films and creations by both U.S.-based and international indie comics artists and writers.</p><p>This book will appeal to scholars and students of new media narrative theory cultural studies sociocultural anthropology folkloristics English/literary studies and popular culture transmedia storytelling researchers and both creators and fans of superhero comics.</p>