How to become a superhero

Abstract

We analyze a collaboration network based on the Marvel Universe comic books. First, we consider the system as a binary network, where two characters are connected if they appear in the same publication. The analysis of degree correlations reveals that, in contrast to most real social networks, the Marvel Universe presents a disassortative mixing on the degree. Then, we use a weight measure to study the system as a weighted network. This allows us to find and characterize well defined communities. Through the analysis of the community structure and the clustering as a function of the degree we show that the network presents a hierarchical structure. Finally, we comment on possible mechanisms responsible for the particular motifs observed.

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• Complex Network Analysis of a Graphic Novel: The Case of the Bande Dessinée Thorgal
• Social network analysis of manga: similarities to real-world social networks and trends over decades
• Interconnected Kingdoms: Comparing 'A Song of Ice and Fire' Adaptations Across Media Using Complex Networks
• Quantifying the role of supernatural entities and the effect of missing data in Irish sagas