One of the great markers of
historical societies and cultures is a strong, consistent folklore or
mythology. While the indigenous Native American tribes passed down a complex
and fascinating oral canon, modern American culture does not identify with
these gods and stories, leaving America more or less myth-less. There are some
regional folklore traditions such as Johnny Appleseed and Davey Crockett, and
even some national mythologized figures, such as Betsy Ross or George Washington.
However this lacks one of the most prominent features of mythology from around
the world, the super-human hero and his epic quests.
I propose that, while definitely
not comparable to the depth and influence of Greek/Roman, Aztec, Chinese or
Egyptian (etc.) mythological pantheons, American comic books filled a similar
role in American story telling and continue to do so. By nature, the head of
the pantheon would be Superman. He was the progenitor (if not genetically, then
conceptually) of the modern comic book superhero. He also fulfills the hero
dialogue that is missing from American Folklore. He is a superhuman who
performs amazing feats of strength, like Hercules, Thor, Atlas, King Arthur and others. While
these roles do not always align, he fits the mold for both.
The timing on the emergence of
Superman could not have come at a better point in America’s search for a
god-hero. Action Comics 1 came out in 1938. Post WWI and just pre WWII, America
was primed for a hero of mythological proportions. Rather than slicing through
hydras, this hero would fend off Nazis and protect against the gangsters of the
20s and 30s. Even his appearance seems to suggest his godly status. He is
extremely muscular and dressed in spandex to highlight his body and strength.
His fighting style relies heavily on his strength as well. No god-hero
negotiates his way out of problems; he fights, using divine strength and
guidance to win every time. He is nearly invincible, particularly in the early
comics before the introduction of kryptonite. Superman is painted as a super
strong, untouchable Adonis who is willing to use his strength to perform heroic
deeds.
While not equivalent to the mythological
pantheons of ancient civilizations, superhero comics seem to fill in a lacuna
in American folklore and mythology. With Superman at the top, other figures
fall into their own roles, creating a varied and expansive set of gods, each
with different personalities, morals and powers. I mean, even Deadpool seems to
fill a mythological constant: the trickster. The absence of prayer or a religious component to the mythology, seems to be
tempered by the utter devotion among geeks and fans alike. A modern day
pantheon, to fight modern evils and woes, lead by an invincible man with no
weaknesses... sounds like an American myth to me.
Rachael,
ReplyDeleteI think this was a brilliant comparison; I never really thought to picture Superman as a contemporary American 'god' but its true how effective Superman can be as an icon. Thinking about comic books as a type of lore seems way ahead of its time, but definitely a possibility due to its influence in American culture. The historical context of America when the atmosphere was bleak seemed very appropriate for the creation of an indestructible hero. The use of mythical powers, the hero and the quest, the Greek "hamartia" are quite relevant in the comics; the Fortress of Solitude reminds me of some type of Mt. Olympus.
Rachel, you make an excellent point. I think Superman, more so than any other comic book hero, embodies the strength and invincibility that we often characterize mythological figures with. As you mention, the lack of myths in America's short history make it easier for Superman's story to appeal to many Americans for so long. And, again, the timing of the birth of this myth in America's history could not have been more opportune. Superman is definitely not as revered today as he may have been half a century ago. But, the fact that children and adults today still view Superman as a mighty figure speaks to how much this character has become such a cultural icon. Just look at all the different interpretations of this hero in pop culture!
ReplyDeleteRachel, this is an interesting point. I think it's definitely clear that Siegel and Schuster drew from Greek and Roman myths to create Superman and his world. I think this is what makes the story seem archetypal to the point of unoriginality to some people. Siegel and Schuster were creating an entirely new medium for storytelling. Understandably, they chose to draw from timeless stories that resonate widely. It's interesting that the Christian iteration of the Jesus story largely supplanted Roman/Greek myth as an inspiration for 'Man of Steel.' Snyder's film spends little time on Superman's struggles to maintain the illusion that he is Clark Kent. Rather, he struggles with the decision to sacrifice himself to Zod for the benefit of mankind. Watch Mojo's clip for the film is among the most overt in its discussion of Superman as a Christ figure. Taking place in a church, it also features the film's most nakedly Christian language. The trailer for Snyder's follow-up suggests that this sort of imagery will become a hallmark of the DC Cinematic Universe.
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