The enduring power of the Superman story

From the early days of the comic book to the modern movie and television incarnations, the Superman story has been one of the most beloved, and most enduring of all hero stories. For generation after generation, readers, television viewers and movie fans alike have thrilled to the exploits and invincibility of the man of steel.

Among the awesome powers possessed by Superman are his powers of flight, his superior speed, his super strength, his famous x-ray vision and superhuman sensory powers. The character of Superman first made his appearance in Action Comics #1, way back in 1938, and he has remained one of the most beloved comic book icons ever since.

The character of Superman was first created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster for the company then known as National Comics. That company is today known as DC Comics. Following his debut in print, Superman subsequently made appearances in many radio serials, films, television programs and video games.

The man known as Superman was born as Kal-El on the planet of Kypton. As a baby he was put in a rocket and sent to Earth by his father, Jor-El just before his home planet was destroyed. The rocket landed just outside the town of Smallville, where the infant was discovered by Jonathan and Martha Kent, who raised him as their own child. As the child dubbed Clark Kent continued to grow, he discovered that he had superhuman powers, and he realized he could use those powers to fight the forces of evil, both in his home town of Smallville and around the world.

When not engaged in the ongoing struggle against evil, Superman lives a simple life disguised as the mild manner reporter Clark Kent, who alike with romantic interest Lois Lane works for the newspaper known as the Daily Planet. Current comic incarnations of Superman have Clark Kent and Lois Lane as a married couple.

It is interesting to note that the relationships entered into by Superman, and his abilities, have evolved over time. Editors have adjusted to changes in popular culture to take advantage of contemporary storylines for Superman. Those who study mythology often note that Superman shares several characteristics with many heroes from other religions and myths, including being spirited away as an infant when he was in danger. This is a common theme in many religions as well as many mythologies.

The story of Superman has come a long way since its birth in 1938, and it continues to grow and evolve. Just about everyone remembers the Superman of the big screen, brought to life so wonderfully by the late Christopher Reeve. In addition, there have been a number of Superman incarnations on the small screen as well, including the current series Smallville.

In addition to the traditional view of Superman, there have been a number of parodies throughout the years. In the pages of Mad magazine, on late night television shows like Saturday Night Live, through the stylings of stand-up comedians and of course on the internet, the Superman legend has been parodied in many hilarious ways. If parody is a sign that a subject is firmly ensconced in popular culture, then it seems that the Superman legend is here to stay.

The popularity of the Superman myth continues unabated, and there is even a new Superman movie version in the works. Whether you have been a fan of the man of steel since he first appeared in 1938, or a recent convert to this universal story, there is a great deal to get to know, and a great deal to love, about this most beloved of superheroes.

Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com

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