Flouting norms, forging identities: Queering of hypermasculinity in Marvel Cinematic Universe’s posthuman superhero pantheon

Abstract

This research explores the convergence and intersection of posthumanism and the queering of hypermasculinity as represented in the superhero bodies of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It examines how the super-bodies of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, specifically Ironman, Captain America, Hulk, and Vision, can be read in light of the intersection between posthumanism and queer theory. By drawing upon posthumanist theory and queer theory, it challenges normative notions regarding hypermasculinity by queering the corporeal forms of superheroes who have experienced technological (like Ironman and Vision) or biological (Captain America and Hulk) enhancement. These posthuman super-bodies stand at the juncture of the ongoing tension between historically evolving heterosexual norms and queer interpretations and can exist as a highly significant site for the representation of heightened masculinity in superhero movies. Thus, this study will attempt to show how posthumanism queers hypermasculine bodies, upending norms by rejecting uniformity and universal definitions. The bodies of these superheroes, which have originated from the human form, move beyond what makes them so and are characterized by constant movement, fluidity, and renewal, which is reminiscent of queer ambiguity.