An exploration of how superhero and weapon play relates to the development of childrenâs moral values, moral principles and moral reasoning; the building of childrenâs co-operation, empathy and s
Table of Contents
Preface
AcknolwedgementsIntroduction
Part One: Arguments held against war, weapon and superhero play - and some responses
The argument that war and weapon play almost automatically leads to increased aggression and violence
The argument that superheroes equate to the normalization or glorification of violence
The argument that superheroes offer up negative, stereotypical and destructive role-models of masculinity and femininity
Part Two: Rethinking superhero and conflict play
Theoretical understandings of children’s moral development
From ‘rough-and-tumble’ play to superhero and conflict play
Superhero and conflict play and the development of co-operation, empathy and sense of community
Superhero and conflict play and children’s sense of self and self-worth
The moral themes that lie behind superhero and conflict play
Part Three: Exploring superhero narratives
Superman: the god-like being
Batman: darkness within the Dark Knight
The X-Men: The rejected group
Conclusion: The merit of superheroes and superhero play
References
Index
