Book Review: The Mythology Class by Arnold Arre
By Michelle E. Ancheta
Imagine a world of mythical beasts, winged creatures, faeries, elves, dragons and wizards – your kind of place? Then enter the realm of renowned comic writer Arnold Arre.
The Mythology Class, Arre’s second graphic novel, features the story of 15 adolescents chosen by Bathala to free the world from encantos who’ve illegitimately trespassed into the world of the living. The plot is set in the familiar terrain of U.P. (University of the Philippines), where all 15 receive a dream that unites them to become the ghost-busters of the Philippines. Although they lack the hi-tech equipment, not to mention the annoying slimer (Thank Bathala!), they are however aided by legendary creatures and mythical heroes like Lam-Ang, Kubin, and Rajah Sulayman, who’ve been resurrected by the Gods century after century to ensure earth’s safety. But just when everything seems to be going well, all hell breaks lose when Sitan’s (God of the Underworld) followers are released, thus wreaking havoc and chaos among mortals. Things make a turn for the worse when the abominable creatures take hold of the new age weapon: guns. The world then turns topsy-turvy as evil is combated by the modern generation with the help of the ancients and legendary weapons.
The plot and circumstances may appear cliché, but what makes this graphic novel stand out are the character’s different idiosyncrasies. The protagonists as well as the antagonists are given specific personalities which make the story more fascinating at the turn of every page. By creatively infusing legendary heroes into his work, Arre’s novel not only entertains but also deepens the reader’s appreciation for the country’s rich past and culture. Moreover, the reader will find that the novel is not only about capturing encantos and what nots, it is also a story that makes one reflect and think of what is truly important.
All in all, The Mythology Class by Arnold Arre is a work of art that will surely help readers discover the secret into solving the universe’s greatest paradox – life.
