As far as superheroes go, Superman is one of my least favorite. He’s too overpowered and while we both grew up in the American midwest I find him to be bland as a character. Batman calls him “Boy scout” because he’s just too nice, it’s why said Bat could defeat him. Superman’s heroism comes from his heart of gold while he seeks to uphold moral justice.
However its in one of my favorite TV shows I grew to appreciate Superman. Justice League and it’s sequel series Justice League Unlimited are children’s shows but along with Batman: The Animated Series, they were written to be enjoyable for adults and children. With complex storylines, proper character development, and the introduction of my favorite Green Lantern: John Stewart.
The show found ways to make every character interesting, with them sometimes getting a whole episode dedicated to them. The Question and Huntress going on conspiracy hunts, Batman and Zatanna saving Wonder Woman, and today’s focus: Darkseid.
While Batman defeating Darkseid with pure cunning across several media is great stuff it’s Superman who has one of my favorite moments. During Darkseid’s invasion of Earth there is a prolonged battle and Superman gives the greatest monologue.
“I feel like I live in a world made of cardboard, always taking constant care not to break something, to break someone. Never allowing myself to lose control even for a moment, or someone could die.”
The significance of this is that for the first time Superman doesn’t have to hold back. Darkseid can withstand Superman letting go of his restraints and unleashing his full power. Superman recognizes this and is prepared to throw a punch as hard as he can.
There’s a reddit post that I found to provide context here. Which also references the Death of Superman story, which was the first comic I ever read. However despite some narrative issues, to me this quote defines what I like about Superman. He is essentially a god amongst humans but is constantly holding back because he’s there to protect them and not destroy. I’d say it’s comparable to Batman never killing and always jailing his villains hoping they’ll reform one day. Though while the Bat wants reformation out of sympathy, Superman wants to protect because he is a good and kind Kryptonian at heart.
If you find Superman to be a bit plain, remember he’s been around since 1938 and has been depicted in many different ways. There may be one such incarnation that makes you appreciate his character more. He’s a paragon of justice with power to do nearly anything but he only uses it for selfless purposes, providing a safer world to those he wants to defend.
ooglykraken 