63 pages • 2 hours read
Jill LeporeThe Secret History of Wonder Woman
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2014A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Secret History of Wonder Woman by Jill Lepore explores the origins of the iconic superhero Wonder Woman through the unconventional life of her creator, William Marston, his wife Elizabeth Holloway, and their partner Olive Byrne. The book examines Marston's work in psychology, his involvement in the women's rights movement, and how these elements influenced Wonder Woman's creation and themes, reflecting key issues of feminism, truth, and societal norms. The narrative delves into Marston's lie detection work, the family's unique living arrangements, and the cultural impact of the Wonder Woman comic series.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Jill Lepore's The Secret History of Wonder Woman delves into the origins and cultural impact of the iconic superhero. Reviewers commend Lepore's meticulous research and engaging prose, which illuminate the fascinating connections between Wonder Woman's creator, feminist movements, and early 20th-century politics. However, some critics find the narrative occasionally meandering and dense with historical details. Overall, the book is praised for its insightful and thorough exploration of a pop culture icon.
Who Should Read The Secret History of Wonder Woman?
Readers who enjoy The Secret History of Wonder Woman by Jill Lepore are likely fans of detailed biographical histories and superheroes. They may also appreciate books like The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, which blend personal stories with larger cultural and scientific narratives.