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ComicStory

ComicStory

By: Phoenix Sisters
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About this listen

Superhero Comics are a uniquely American artform that have intertwined with US history since their inception. Hosts Hollis Thompson and Kelly Guentner explore the ways that superhero comics both mirror what’s going on in the history of their era and even influence that history. Superheroes have become our modern mythology, and the way the stories have evolved with US society is fascinating from a sociological standpoint. Hollis is an English Professor who specializes in studying stories, and Kelly is an all-around geek girl who has been fascinated with superheroes and the power of storytelliPhoenix Sisters World
Episodes
  • Don't Mess With the CCA!
    Dec 22 2025

    ComicStorians Kelly Guentner and Hollis Thompson conclude the Comics Code Authority saga with this discussion of the CCA itself. Who actually decided the rules of the CCA, how was it implemented, and how did it impact the comic industry? Find these answers and more within!


    This is our season 1 series finale, but look for more thrilling tales when we return for season 2!

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    49 mins
  • The Comic Industry on Trial
    Oct 8 2025

    After the 'Seduction of the Innocent' bombshell was dropped, the US Government decided to hold an exploratory hearing to determine just how much of an impact comic books really have on America's youth and what actions might need to be taken.

    But wait-who are the players in this drama and what are their real motivations? Join Comicstorians Kelly Guentner and Hollis C. Thompson as we explore those questions and more!

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    47 mins
  • Frederic Wertham & Seduction of the Innocent
    Aug 26 2025

    Frederic Wertham is often painted as the biggest villain in comics history, as his tome, Seduction of the Innocent, is responsible for the creation of the Comics Code Authority and the death of several genres of comics (horror comics particularly!)


    But is he actually a villain as he's painted, or is the truth more complicated? Comicstorians Kelly Guentner and Hollis Thompson dive into the true story behind the Seduction of the Innocent and the man who wrote it.

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    58 mins
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