Assembling the Marvel Cinematic Universe

This collection of academic essays digs deep into the cultural machinery of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, moving beyond box office numbers to analyze how its films and series tackle pressing social, economic, and political themes. The book positions the sprawling franchise not just as entertainment, but as a significant cultural text that sparks meaningful dialogue on contemporary issues, from identity and power to systemic challenges that question established norms.

What sets this analysis apart is its focus on the MCU's socially relevant characters and plots as a reflection of our own world, exploring how these blockbuster narratives engage with and challenge real-world values. Readers with a serious interest in media studies, cultural criticism, or the deeper societal impact of pop culture will find a compelling framework here. Ultimately, it offers a thought-provoking lens through which to view the superhero stories we think we know, revealing the complex ideological battles being fought onscreen.