Professor Marston & the Wonder Women

In 1945, William Moulton Marston provides a pivotal testimony before the Child Study Association of America, a moment that unfolds the entire narrative of his life and relationships. This testimony serves as a framing device for the flashbacks that follow, revealing the complexity of his personal and professional struggles.

Flashbacks take us back to 1928, where William and his wife, Elizabeth, engage in groundbreaking academic research at Harvard and Radcliffe. It's during this time that William hires his student, Olive Byrne, as a research assistant, marking the beginning of their intense collaboration in the investigation of the lie detector and DISC theory.

As William and Olive work closely together, a deep emotional bond forms between the three of them: William, Elizabeth, and Olive. The powerful truth revealed by lie detector tests uncovers their mutual love, leading them into a complex and compelling polyamorous relationship.

As whispers of their unconventional relationship begin to spread, both William and Elizabeth face professional repercussions. They are dismissed from their respective positions at the university, altering the trajectory of their lives and forcing them to adapt to new societal challenges.

Following their departures from their academic roles, Olive reveals her pregnancy, prompting her to move in with the Marstons. This marks a significant moment, as they begin to forge a unique family unit, navigating the complexities of their relationships while crafting a narrative to shield themselves from societal judgment.

The Marston family establishes a quaint suburban life in New York, embracing their unconventional family dynamics. Their ability to find joy amidst societal scrutiny creates a resilient family bond that allows them to thrive despite external pressures.

By 1934, the family dynamics deepen with the birth of four children, two from Olive and two from Elizabeth. They fabricate a cover story, portraying Olive as a widow being cared for by the Marstons, effectively masking the true nature of their relationships.

In 1940, William discovers a lingerie shop that ignites his imagination for creating a female superheroine. Influenced by the significant women in his life, he presents the idea of Wonder Woman to publisher Max Gaines, who simplifies the name and embraces the concept wholeheartedly.

Marston, driven by the need for a successful writing career, crafts the character of Wonder Woman, embodying his DISC theory ideals and the powerful influences of Elizabeth and Olive. The comic's immediate success brings financial relief to their household, marking a high point in their lives.

Their unconventional family life comes to light when a neighbor discovers their intimate relationship. The children face bullying at school and are expelled, prompting fear for their safety, leading Elizabeth to insist that Olive and her children leave the Marston home.

In the wake of the public scrutiny surrounding Wonder Woman, William's health deteriorates, culminating in a collapse that reveals his terminal cancer diagnosis. This devastating news prompts a desperate need for reconciliation between him, Elizabeth, and Olive.

In a heartfelt moment, William urges Elizabeth to embrace a more equitable partnership and seeks Olive's forgiveness. Elizabeth, confessing her emotional dependency on Olive, ultimately consents to their reunion, underscoring the deep connections within their unique family structure.

William Marston passes away in 1947, leaving a profound legacy that impacts both Elizabeth and Olive. They continue to live together as partners for many decades, navigating life while honoring his memory and the complexities of their relationship.

In 1972, feminist icon Gloria Steinem revives the character of Wonder Woman, featuring her prominently on the cover of Ms. Magazine. This act not only restores the character's superhuman abilities but also reintroduces Wonder Woman as a symbol of female empowerment.