Our Gods Wear Spandex

More about the book

From occult underground to superhero! This exploration reveals intriguing links between superheroes and the enchanted world of esoterica. Questions arise: Was Lex Luthor inspired by Aleister Crowley? Can Captain Marvel be connected to ancient Sun gods? Readers will uncover countless fascinating connections, such as DC Comics editor Julius Schwartz’s early career as H.P. Lovecraft's agent and the significant influence of Madame Blavatsky's Theosophy on comic book origins. The narrative traces the rise of comic superheroes, highlighting their relationship with cultural trends in the late 19th century, particularly the occult explosion in Western Europe and America. Four basic superhero archetypes are identified: the Messiah, the Golem, the Amazon, and the Brotherhood, illustrating how the early 20th-century occult Bohemian underground inspired modern comic book heroes. With the popularity of writers like Grant Morrison and Alan Moore, the vast ComiCon audience is ready for an introduction to esoteric mysteries. This book delves into chapters like Ancient of Days, Ascended Masters, and God and Gangsters, showcasing the profound connection between superheroes and the world of esoterica, from Prague's ghettos to Valhalla and the Fortress of Solitude.