Author Talk: Peter Meineck

What do Iron Man and Odysseus have in common? This question lies at the heart of Professor Peter Meineck’s new book, TONY STARK, ODYSSEUS, AND THE MYTHS BEHIND MARVEL: Ancient Heroes in the Modern World. This exciting nonfiction work bridges the gap between modern superheroes and ancient legends, offering a fresh perspective on why these blockbuster stories resonate so deeply with contemporary audiences. 

This book asks the ultimate question: what do our modern myths say about us? By weaving mythology into its narratives, the book shows how Marvel not only entertains but also educates, reminding readers of the enduring power of stories to shape our understanding of the world. It is a rollicking journey from the legends of old to the pop-culture phenomena of today, inviting readers to explore the hero within themselves. 

Peter Meineck holds the endowed chair of Professor of Classics in the Modern World at New York University. He holds a PhD in Classics, has published widely on ancient performance, and has been teaching mythology for nearly thirty years.