Jack Kirby’s Lost Art (Entry 688.DE2203)

The Foundation Trilogy, written by Isaac Asimov, is a seminal work in science fiction that explores the collapse of the Galactic Empire and the subsequent efforts to preserve human civilization. The series, inspired by Edward Gibbon's 'The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire,' introduces the concept of psychohistory, a mathematical science that predicts the future behavior of large populations. The trilogy consists of 'Foundation' (1951), 'Foundation and Empire' (1952), and 'Second Foundation' (1953). It follows the establishment of the Foundation by Hari Seldon, who aims to shorten the dark age that will follow the empire's collapse from 30,000 years to just 1,000 years. The series is known for its intricate plot, clever resolutions to seemingly impossible situations, and its exploration of themes such as governance, warfare, and the rise and fall of empires.

Published in 1954, 'Seduction of the Innocent' by Fredric Wertham warned about the perceived dangers of comic books, claiming they promoted violence, sex, and other adult themes that could lead to juvenile delinquency. The book was influential in the establishment of the Comics Code Authority, a self-regulatory body that imposed strict guidelines on the comic book industry. Wertham's arguments were based on his clinical observations and critiques of the commercial practices of comic book publishers and retailers. However, subsequent studies have disputed the validity of his research, highlighting instances of manipulated and fabricated evidence.

Written in epistolary form, the novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious scientist who, driven by Enlightenment-era ideas of progress and science, creates a living being from dead body parts. However, upon seeing the creature come to life, Frankenstein is horrified and abandons it. The creature, shunned by society due to its appearance, seeks revenge against its creator, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel explores themes of guilt, loss, and the emotional and moral consequences of scientific hubris, blending elements of Gothic and Romantic literature.