This edited collection reads Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' graphic novel series Watchmen from a religious and theological perspective.
Matthew Brake and the contributors explore the religious influence, symbolism, and narratives embedded within the Watchmen graphic novels (1986-7), the prequel Before Watchmen (2012) series, DC: Rebirth (2016), Doomsday Clock (2017-19), the HBO series (2019), and the Rorschach (1986) comic series. While religion is not necessarily an explicit theme, the essays herein reveal its clear impact on the Watchmen universe. Across nineteen chapters, this volume traverses subjects including theodicy, monster theory, pastoral care, and the ethics of superhero culture. Much of the volume considers the role and contested "divinity" of Dr. Manhattan, as well as the graphic novel's iconic line, "God exists, and he's American."
Organized chronologically by the release of its primary artifact, each chapter constructs a tapestry of evolving conceptions of faith and religion within Watchmen. Through this study, Brake and the contributors affirm how Christianity specifically, but religion more broadly, continues to inform secular media and popular culture. Tracing these religious and theological subjects within the Watchmen series uncovers how this group of "vigilantes" open up important conversations surrounding morals, ethics, and faith.
