Total Strangers
Autism in Pop Culture: Media, Myths and People
Ever since Rain Man arrived at theatres in 1988, autism has become a pop-cultural phenomenon in novels, films and TV series. Characters such as Sherlock Holmes, Mr. Spock, Temperance Brennan, Sheldon Cooper or Ella Schön display traits reminiscent of autism – often fascinating but sometimes cliched. Ulrich Merkl, himself autistic and author of the German best-seller Die unglaubliche Welt genialer Menschen mit Autismus (The Unbelievable World of Brilliant People with Autism), explores the portrayal of autistic people in pop culture in his new work. With well-founded knowledge, humour and empathy, he analyses more than 100 feature films and TV series – from classics such as The Stranger to modern shows like The Good Doctor. In the process, he examines the crucial questions: How do these characters shape our image of autism? Do they promote understanding – or do they reinforce prejudices? And how do people on the autism spectrum perceive these portrayals? This is a clever, exciting and entertaining book about myth and reality – and the art of understanding those who are different.
- An autistic person’s unique and authentic perspective on the portrayal of autism in films, TV series and literature
- Insightful, critical and entertaining
