So, seriously, can the Fantastic Four by Lee and Kirby be considered modern mythology??

Answer 1

in answer to your question, yes; it can very seriously be considered modern mythology or folklore and many have viewed it this way. Phd's no doubt have been written about this. Kirby in particular seemed to be aware of this link, and often (esp. in his later years) seemed to be attempting to create his own cosmic mythologies through the medium of comics. eg. The Eternals (Marvel comics) , which are loosely based on the old greek gods. Also, some have come to view UFO abductions as a modern mythology (or folklore) as well citing old Faerie legends as having many of the same patterned events as abductions. An old demi-god like Hercules is much like superman (great strength, connections with the sun) who, if you remember, comes from space , also known in ye olden times as the celestial realm, the traditional realm of the gods. The FF can be compared in particular with the 4 elements, Johnny = fire, the thing = earth, Mr. Fantastic= water (flexible, elastic, soft) and the Invisible girl as air.

Answer 2

ABSOLUTLEY! All comics, science fiction and other heroic fiction should be considered "Modern Mythology."

The fiction that we call "mythology" (i.e. Greek Mythology, Roman Mythology) was written as a way of preserving beliefs and social concepts of the times through parables, stories and poems. Comic books and other current fiction, illustrated or not, is a great medium in which express the climate of the times politically, socially, environmentally, religiously, or however the creator sees fit.

A great example would be to look at science fiction of the 1950s. Their simplistic view of the future was obviously a hopeful dream that life would get better and prosper after the hardships of war.

By the same token, comics today are seasoned with hope for healing from the current social and political climates. Stories are being written about heroes giving their lives to save the universe and heores being made to give up their personal lives for the supposed greater good. All of which can be looked back upon and analyzed for a greater message and or lesson.

Then there's Garfield... I have no idea what that's for.

Answer 3

I'd say no, because I think mythology usually has some ties to believed in legends, whereas the Fantastic Four is known to be a fictional comic book.

Answer 4

well, i think that mythology in general is used as a term meaning the stories and actions that took place to explain a certain set of beliefs. so, i'd have to say "no" in a literal sense. but really, in a story telling point of view, and even in a way that can give examples of right and wrong, i think that it does fit the bill quite nicely.

Answer 5

kinda

Answer 6

Why should it not be?