Superheroes have long been a part of pop culture, especially for the youth. Whether it be D.C or Marvel, there is something about fictional characters with supernatural characteristics that captures the imagination of so much of the American public. What exactly though is the reason for the craze over these characters and the storylines that are built around them? Is it just the thrill of going into a fictional world where a person with super strength can save the world? Or, is it something more than that? It is interesting how even the people who do not consider themselves to be die-hard comic book lovers, still have an interest in these films.
Let’s take one of the most well-known superheroes which is Superman. Even if you have never read a comic book, like myself, there is a very small chance that people do not know who this fictional character is. Not only has he been a major icon in the world of superheroes, but he has become this idolized symbol in a way. While it is impossible to have his level of super strength, the personal qualities that Superman has are those that society tends to favor in people they idolize. These qualities include patriotism, a desire to help others, and the willingness to run towards danger when others are running away. These are just a few of the qualities that can be pointed out. What is interesting about these qualities is that they all can be applied to real-life people who society deems as leaders. Whether this be first responders, members of the military, or even some politicians, these “superman qualities” are reflected in the actions of these individuals. Even though these characteristics can vary depending on the characters that are being portrayed, there is still a general aspect to many of the qualities that make up these superheroes.
In other terms, there is still the fascination of escaping into a world that is better or worse than reality. In some cases, these fictional scenarios are based in the real world. For example, the Avengers is a fictional storyline that takes place in the real world. Even though the scenarios that occur in these films are not ones that people would want to be in, there is still a fascination that draws so much of the public in. The interest in the special effects that are portrayed in these films, along with the danger that superheroes put themselves in, play into the love that humans have for fiction and the excitement of experiencing such crazy scenarios. The ability to follow these superheroes into danger is something that captures the minds of so many and produces the adrenaline rush that occurs through these action-packed scenes.
Even though these are just general observations and inferences, there does seem to be this love for the comic book world that still manages to carry on through generations. Whether this is because of the fictional scenarios or admiration for personal qualities, superheroes are without a doubt a major fuel source to American entertainment.
I think it’s really interesting how you bring up the appeal of superheroes as a blend of interest in the supernatural and celebration of morality. While both have their appeals in American society, hence why cryptids and good samaritans receive so much positive attention, superheroes blend those two qualities in a way that allows them to be as popular as they are today.
I enjoyed your analysis on the qualities that superman has and liked how you related them to real-world people such as firefighters or first-responders. I liked how you focused on not his physical advantages but his mental mindset making him who he is and is what truly makes him admirable.