In 2018, the Marvel Cinematic Universe finally delivered on something
fans had long been waiting for: a feature film with a solo Black
superhero.
Black Panther
introduced viewers to the stunning world of Wakanda, a fictional
African country with incredible technological advancements, and to
T'Challa, a young man stepping into his role as king and taking up
the mantle of the Black Panther
title from his late father.
The unforgettable
story, coupled with the film's mega-success, has undoubtedly shaped
the future of superhero cinema, in addition to genuinely changing
viewers' lives. Why Wakanda Matters gives this iconic film the
in-depth analysis it deserves under the lens of the latest
psychological concepts-as well as delving into the lasting cultural
impact of this unforgettable story.
Edited by Sheena C.
Howard, an award-winning author, filmmaker, and scholar, Why
Wakanda Matters: What Black Panther
Reveals About Psychology, Identity, and Communication features a
collection of essays from leading experts in a variety of fields who
offer insightful perspectives on topics such as:
- Cognitive
dissonance: The important messages within T'Challa's nuanced identity
and eventual shift from nationalism to globalism.
- Intergenerational
trauma and resistance: How N'Jadaka (aka Erik/Killmonger) identifies
with the trauma that his ancestors have suffered.
- Social identity: How
Nakia, Shuri, Okoye, and Ramonda--all empowered, intelligent, and
assertive women of color--can make a lasting impression on women and
girls.
- Collective identity: How Black Panther has created a
shared fantasy for Black audience members--and why this is
groundbreaking.
- Cultural and racial identity: What we can learn from
Black Panther's portrayal of a culture virtually untouched by
white supremacy.
Fans of the movie
and those interested in deeper discussions about the film will revel
in this thought-provoking examination of all aspects of Black
Panther and the power of psychology.