Presents a psychological analysis of why superheroes are so popular in modern culture, discussing the history of the superhero, the notion of dual identity, powerful women, and other topics.

Originally published in 2004 by the Continuum International Publishing Group Inc.

Why Superheroes? -- It Started with Gilgamesh: The History of the Superhero -- The Dual Identity: Of Pimpernals and Immigrants from the Stars -- Storms of the Orphans: Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man -- Amazon Grace: Wonder Woman, Xena, and Buffy -- Thermonuclear Families: The Justice League, The X-Men, The Fantastic Four -- You Wouldn't Like Me When I'm Angry: The Hulk, Judge Dredd, and Wolverine -- Changing Voices: From Robin to Spider-Man -- Values and Villains: What's It All About? -- The Future of the Superhero.