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How Has Gender Identity Naturally Altered Over Time?  6 to 8 min read Views on Gender and Sex...  In the eighties, some psychologists described  men as experiencing 'autogynephilia' if they were sexually aroused at the idea of being a woman. If sexual cross-gender fantasy can entice male to female transition it may reveal one psycho-sexual example for what we call gender identity. This theory differs to what the World Health Organisation advise (WHO), along with people like Judith Butler, who insist gender is a social construct based on shared beliefs. For me, such ideas are poppycock, given for starters, how beliefs can be altered! Human biology causes gender. I might be wrong, blinded by my own biases, so let's explore...  How is Gender Constructed?  We are unique sheep , and truthfully, I think men transition for various reasons. Masculine and feminine traits arise like bio-determinants. Therein exists part of a dichotomy; a bottom-up emergence of gender, roo...

Wonder Woman vs Aquaman

DC Rebirth: The Aquaman and Wonder woman

4 to 6 min read

I went through a massive phase of reading heroic and epic graphic novels, and when I look at my shelf I can recall every story. The full set of Aquaman, and the six or seven of Wonder woman's DC Rebirth graphic novels I have really hit the spot. I have found much to admire with the works of Dan Abnett, there were, however, some elements that fall somewhat short of the mark.

Two graphic novel covers


Rucka's take on Wonder woman was so welcome, a great return to the Amazon's original pre-new 52 character. In this collection, Diana struggles to figure out what is going on in her life, she is troubled, bordering on feeling mentally ill. This was a humbling read and quite relatable. Especially as so many of us will experience poor mental health at some point in our lives. Her mind, as challenged as it was, didn't slow down her protective nature which propelling her story forward. She's still a badass!

Wonderwoman in combat with a thug


As always, heroism, girl power and honour sits at the heart of this run. Her self-discovery was the big sell for me. The spectacular art by Liam Sharp and Nicola Scott illustrates the magnificence and strength of Themyscira and its people. The likes of Wonder woman and Aquaman differ somewhat to The Flash, CyborgLanternBatman and Superman who have similarity with Hermes, Hephaestus, Hades and Zeus. (Lantern has no hellenic equivalent). However, Wonder woman and Aquaman on the other hand, are linked to these ancient cultures. Wonder woman is thousands of years old; I find this idea has a quality about it, as well as how America has taken her under it's wing. 

Patriotic wonder woman

Disappointment lingered around the pacing of the Rebirth story, which, I agree, felt slow at times. Personally, her self-discovery warranted more drama, regaining her memory never seemed to convey how much more amazed she should have been; there was no culture shock with themescyra or a tasty climatic resolution, which I craved. The Amazon Princess has limited depth, and her relationship with Steve Trevor was a small offering. 

Aquaman swimming with sharks

With Aquaman we see the writing talent of Dan Abnett, the guy who wrote Ravenor for Warhammer 40k. This was a breath of fresh air. Abnett's Arthur Curry/Aquaman, was brilliantly introduced and marketed to the reader. He re-branded those micky-taking tropes we see about Aquaman on-line and presents the reader with a plausible alternative. 

Aquaman caught up in pollution and beached

This printed version of Aquaman resembles the film, however, it is better. For instance, we see Arthur struggles to balance his kingly  duties with his loyalty to the surface world. These Rebirth publications are way more political than the Jason Momoa's and Amber Heard alternative.

Aquaman using mind powers

However, some critics have noted that Aquaman's Rebirth series can feel overly serious at times, but I think Abnett was wise. The writer's exploration of Atlantean politics and culture made the interpersonal relationships more imersive for me, this doesn't work for everyone. As expected. We are all different. 

Aquaman using fish as transportation

I suppose, while both Wonder Woman and Aquaman are enjoyable reads, they do have their flaws; many of these comic books do. If we consider that many hit the 7 out of 10 mark on goodreads, it isn't bad going!

 

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