University of Pittsburgh Library System

The ancient Greco-Roman world still remains a vital part of our cultural zeitgeist in the modern era and this is perhaps nowhere better exemplified than in the comic books of the 20th century, like those held in the Hillman archives comic collection. In the visual elements of these comics, ancient ideas and themes reemerge and are implemented by modern storytellers to suit their own purposes. The choice of costuming, poses, and even hair colors are all very intentional in how they are presented. Modern comic artists use these ancient figures and ideas that are easily recognizable, even on a subconscious level, to convey themes like nationalism and to advertise various products. To study this point, I looked at dozens of different comic issues from a wide time spectrum, noting how certain elements changed or stayed consistent across eras and artists. I then compiled my research in an Omeka site, exhibiting both comic designs and their ancient counterparts to best showcase how these modern comics draw on ancient ideas. The ancient Greeks and Romans were masters of using their mythologies to justify national pride and cultural dominance and so it only makes sense that superheroes, modern mythic figures, continue this trend. Wonder Woman takes the favorable parts of being an Amazon, a fierce female warrior that can inspire new generations of women as feminism evolves, but disregards their warlike nature and savagery in the eyes of the ancient Greeks. Hercules is a figure of unmatched strength and courage, which comic creators will love to emphasize, all while sweeping away his past of rape and murder with careful costuming changes. Ancient ideas and heroes are incredibly useful and marketable, as has been shown time and time again, they just have to be carefully showcased in the correct context.