Hastings College professor of communication arts Dr. John Perlich is lead editor and contributor for “Millennial Mythmaking: Essays on the Power of Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature, Films and Games,” which he completed with Nebraska Wesleyan University professor of communication David Whitt. The book, which is published by McFarland Press, is Perlich’s second book project in three years. His “Modern Mythology in the New Millennium” was published in 2008.

Perlich, who has taught in communication arts since 1999, said the idea for the book came about as a result of the growing popularity of this genre.
“Although myth has been studied for ages,” Perlich explained. “Myths and archetypes evolve and grow in the same manner as human civilization. There will always be room for new myths and stories.”

According to Perlich, contemporary myths, particularly science fiction and fantasy texts, can provide commentary on our culture, what we have created and where we are going. The essays showcased in the book represent a variety of disciplines and expand upon writings in several areas including rhetoric, myth, and mythology. Modern examples of myths from various sources such as “Planet of the Apes,” “Wicked,” “Pan’s Labyrinth,” the Harry Potter series and “Second Life” are analyzed as creative mythology and a representation of contemporary culture and emerging technology.

Hastings College, founded in 1882, is a private, four-year liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). A total of 64 majors in 32 areas of study and 12 pre-professional programs are offered to more than 1,150 students. Hastings College was named 75th Best Value College in the nation and #1 in Nebraska by Forbes.com and the Center for College Affordability and Productivity. It was named a 2010 “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review and rated a “Best Buy in College Education” by Barron’s.