Hulk Smash! A Content Analysis of the Incredible Hulk Comics

• In Event: Crime Portrayals in Popular Media

Abstract

“Hulk smash!” is one of the most iconic phrases uttered in the pages of comic books. The Incredible Hulk is one of comics’ most violent characters as the Hulk smashes first and asks questions later. The popularity of the comic book genre has exploded within past decades and the interest in comics has increased. But exactly how violent is The Incredible Hulk and what does that mean for readers? This research examines the occurrence of violence in the Incredible Hulk comics through a thematic content analysis of 248 issues. Specifically, such themes as violence against men and women, unpunished violence, formal punishments of violence, interventions to stop violence and the justification provided for violence were assessed. The goal of the research was determine the amount and level of violence within the comic and in what context it occurred. This presentation will showcase the results of this study, as well as a provide a discussion about the large amount of violence occurring within the pages of this comic and the potential impact this may have on a reader and their view of violence, crime and justice.

Authors

• Shelly Clevenger, ISU

• Brittany Acquaviva, Illinois State University