[ecrea] Call for Contributors Fan Phenomena: Batman

Call for Contributors /Fan Phenomena: Batman/

On the eve of Christopher Nolan’s trilogy-closer /The Dark Knight 
Rises/,/ /Intellect is seeking contributors for /Fan Phenomena: Batman/. 
This new series, /Fan Phenomena/, is prompted by a growing appetite for 
books that tap into the fascination we have with what constitutes an 
iconic or cultish phenomenon and how a particular person, TV show or 
film character/film infiltrates their way into the public consciousness. 
The series will look at particular examples of ‘fan culture’ and 
approach the subject in an accessible manner aimed at both fans and 
those interested in the cultural and social aspects of these fascinating 
– and often unusual – ‘universes’.

Papers are invited that discuss any aspect of Batman and Fandom, 
including, but not limited to, the following:

FAN MEDIA

From widely distributed fan films such as /Batman: Dead End /to slash 
fiction that imagines Batman and Robin as more than just crime-fighting 
colleagues, fan responses to Batman frequently broaden the scope of the 
source material. Topics might include: fan art and fiction, fan films, 
mashups, machinima as well as issues surrounding authorship and copyright.

ADAPTATIONS and INFLUENCE

Although Batman may have his origin in comics, the Dark Knight has cast 
his shadow over a number of media and entertainments. Batman fans also 
migrate between media, often bringing their expectations and habits with 
them. Papers are invited which consider the interaction between Batman, 
adaptations and fans. Topics might include: Online fandom, Fan criticism 
of adaptations, viral marketing such as /The Dark Knight/, 
Comic-Conventions, Transmedia Storytelling and Convergence Culture.

FASHION

From Bat-Symbol emblazoned T-shirts to full on cosplay, Batman’s ionic 
status has inspired many fashion choices. Papers are invited which 
consider this relationship. Topics might include: Merchandise, Escapism, 
Fashion Trends and Cultural Impact of Style.

REPRESENTATIONS OF FANS

Papers are invited which discuss representations of “fans” in Batman 
texts such as the “Beware the Gray Ghost” episode of /Batman: The 
Animated Series /in which Bruce Wayne meets his childhood icon, or /The 
Dark Knight /in which Batman inspires like-minded vigilantes.

ECONOMICS AND POPULARITY

Despite occasional dips in popularity, Batman has been an important 
force in popular culture for over seventy years. Papers are invited 
which consider the role fans have played in sustaining the hero’s 
recognition.

Please submit abstracts of no more than 300 words, an academic bio and 
contact details (either in the body of a mail or as a single attachment) 
to Liam Burke at (liam.burke /at/ nuigalway.ie) 
<mailto:(liam.burke /at/ nuigalway.ie)> by 12 March 2012. Final papers will be 
3,000 - 3,500 words and will be need to be submitted no later than 31 
May 2012.