Superman
(→Overview: initial entry from TGSB *whew!*) |
(final touch-up of 'overview' addition and a new picture :-)) |
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=Overview= | =Overview= | ||
| + | [[Image:Super pastel Shuster.jpg|right|thumb|Superman pastel by co-creator Joe Shuster.]] | ||
'''Superman'''. A world-famous crime-fighter and adventurer who has, for almost seven decades, battled the forces of crime and injustice with the aid of an awesome array of superhuman powers, including X-ray vision, the power of flight, and strength far beyond that of any ordinary mortal. Born on the planet [[Krypton]], the son of the scientist [[Jor-El]] and his wife [[Lara]], he was launched into outer space in an experimental rocket ship to enable him to escape the cataclysm that destroyed his native planet, and, arriving on Earth, was taken into the home of [[Jonathan and Martha Kent]], who named him Clark Kent and raised him to manhood as their adopted son. Endowed with mighty super-powers in the alien environment of Earth, this orphan from Krypton--named Kal-El by his parents--has, since mid-1938, battled the forces of evil as Superman, while concealing his true, extraterrestrial identity beneath the alternate identity of Clark Kent, mild-mannered reporter for the Metropolis [[Daily Planet]], more recently a full-time newscaster for [[Metropolis]] television station [[WGBS-TV]]. | '''Superman'''. A world-famous crime-fighter and adventurer who has, for almost seven decades, battled the forces of crime and injustice with the aid of an awesome array of superhuman powers, including X-ray vision, the power of flight, and strength far beyond that of any ordinary mortal. Born on the planet [[Krypton]], the son of the scientist [[Jor-El]] and his wife [[Lara]], he was launched into outer space in an experimental rocket ship to enable him to escape the cataclysm that destroyed his native planet, and, arriving on Earth, was taken into the home of [[Jonathan and Martha Kent]], who named him Clark Kent and raised him to manhood as their adopted son. Endowed with mighty super-powers in the alien environment of Earth, this orphan from Krypton--named Kal-El by his parents--has, since mid-1938, battled the forces of evil as Superman, while concealing his true, extraterrestrial identity beneath the alternate identity of Clark Kent, mild-mannered reporter for the Metropolis [[Daily Planet]], more recently a full-time newscaster for [[Metropolis]] television station [[WGBS-TV]]. | ||
Superman is "Earth's mightiest hero" (S No. 128/1, Apr '59: chs. 1-2-"Superman versus the Futuremen"; "The Secret of the Futuremen"), a "colorfully-costumed, mighty-sinewed man of might" engaged in "an unrelenting battle against the forces of evil" (S No. 21/4, Mar/Apr 1943: "The Ghost of Superman!"). He is "the world's number one champion of justice and fair play" (S No. 130/3, Jul 1959: "The Town That Hated Superman!") and "mankind's foremost crusader for good" (S No. 181/2, Nov 1965: "The Superman of 2965!"), "a fighting champion of justice who is famous the world over" (Act No.45, Feb 1942). Described as "the world's most dynamic man" (WF No.8, Win 1942: "Talent, Unlimited!") and the "world's mightiest mortal" (WF No.116, Mar 1961: "The Creature from Beyond!"; and others), he is "mankind's greatest friend" (Act No.310, Mar 1964: "Secret of Kryptonite Six!"), a "mighty foe of all evil" (Act No.91, Dec 1945: "The Ghost Drum!"), a super-powered "savior of the helpless and oppressed" (Act No.18, Nov 1939). | Superman is "Earth's mightiest hero" (S No. 128/1, Apr '59: chs. 1-2-"Superman versus the Futuremen"; "The Secret of the Futuremen"), a "colorfully-costumed, mighty-sinewed man of might" engaged in "an unrelenting battle against the forces of evil" (S No. 21/4, Mar/Apr 1943: "The Ghost of Superman!"). He is "the world's number one champion of justice and fair play" (S No. 130/3, Jul 1959: "The Town That Hated Superman!") and "mankind's foremost crusader for good" (S No. 181/2, Nov 1965: "The Superman of 2965!"), "a fighting champion of justice who is famous the world over" (Act No.45, Feb 1942). Described as "the world's most dynamic man" (WF No.8, Win 1942: "Talent, Unlimited!") and the "world's mightiest mortal" (WF No.116, Mar 1961: "The Creature from Beyond!"; and others), he is "mankind's greatest friend" (Act No.310, Mar 1964: "Secret of Kryptonite Six!"), a "mighty foe of all evil" (Act No.91, Dec 1945: "The Ghost Drum!"), a super-powered "savior of the helpless and oppressed" (Act No.18, Nov 1939). | ||
| − | Superman No. 1/1 calls Superman "the greatest exponent of justice the world has ever known" (Sum 1939), and other texts describe him as "the law's most powerful defender" (Act No.177, Feb 1953: "The Anti-Superman Weapon"), as "the greatest of all heroes" (Act No.210, Nov 1955: "Superman in Superman Land"), and as a "defender of democracy" (S No. 13/1, Nov/Dec 1941) who has chosen to "dedicate [his] powers to the good of all humanity!" (S No. 121/1, May 1958: "The Bride of Futureman!"). "There is one man that people throughout the world honor and respect," notes Superman No. 128/1,, "--and that man is Superman!" (Apr 1959: chs.1-2-"Superman versus the Futuremen"; "The Secret of the Futuremen"). | + | Superman No. 1/1 calls Superman "the greatest exponent of justice the world has ever known" (Sum 1939), and other texts describe him as "the law's most powerful defender" (Act No.177, Feb 1953: "The Anti-Superman Weapon"), as "the greatest of all heroes" (Act No.210, Nov 1955: "Superman in Superman Land"), and as a "defender of democracy" (S No. 13/1, Nov/Dec 1941) who has chosen to "dedicate [his] powers to the good of '''all humanity'''!" (S No. 121/1, May 1958: "The Bride of Futureman!"). "There is one man that people throughout the world honor and respect," notes Superman No. 128/1,, "--and that man is '''Superman'''!" (Apr 1959: chs.1-2-"Superman versus the Futuremen"; "The Secret of the Futuremen"). |
Superman is "an incredibly muscular figure" (WF | Superman is "an incredibly muscular figure" (WF | ||
| − | No.6, Sum 1942: "Man of Steel versus Man of Metal!"), "indestructible and cosmic in his gigantic strength" (Act No.131, Apr 1949: "The Scrambled Superman!"), a tireless "sentinel for the world" (Act No.282, Nov 1961: "Superman's Toughest Day!") whose "incredible super-powers. ..have made him a living legend...!" (S No. 160/1, Apr 1963: pts. I-II-"The Mortal Superman!"; "The Cage of Doom!"). He is also the "most famous man in America" (Act No.143, Apr 1950: "The Bride of Superman!"), "patriot number one" (S No. 12/3, Sep/Oct 1941), the indefatigable "foe of all interests and activities subversive to this country's best interests" (S No. 10/4, May/Jun 1941). Everywhere, "in big cities...small towns...rural villages...the name of Superman is honored and loved!" (S No. 130/3, Jul 1959: "The Town That Hated Superman!"). | + | No.6, Sum 1942: "Man of Steel versus Man of Metal!"), "indestructible and cosmic in his gigantic strength" (Act No.131, Apr 1949: "The Scrambled Superman!"), a tireless "sentinel for the world" (Act No.282, Nov 1961: "Superman's Toughest Day!") whose "incredible super-powers. ..have made him a living legend...!" (S No. 160/1, Apr 1963: pts. I-II-"The Mortal Superman!"; "The Cage of Doom!"). He is also the "most famous man in America" (Act No.143, Apr 1950: "The Bride of Superman!"), "patriot number one" (S No. 12/3, Sep/Oct 1941), the indefatigable "foe of all interests and activities subversive to this country's best interests" (S No. 10/4, May/Jun 1941). Everywhere, "in big cities...small towns...rural villages...the name of '''Superman''' is honored and loved!" (S No. 130/3, Jul 1959: "The Town That Hated Superman!"). |
| − | Indeed, "throughout the universe, Superman is hailed as a mighty champion of justice" (Act No.319, Dec 1964: "The Condemned Superman!"), as a "champion of the weak and helpless" (Act No.4, Sep 1938) whose life is a "constant battle against evil. .." (Act No.280, Sep 1961: "Brainiac's Super-Revenge!"). "Not only on Earth is Superman the greatest and most acclaimed of heroes," proclaims Superman No.168, "but on many other worlds across the universe as well!" (Apr 1964: pts. I-II-"Luthor--Super-Hero!"; "Lex Luthor, Daily Planet Editor!"). | + | Indeed, "throughout the universe, '''Superman''' is hailed as a mighty champion of justice" (Act No.319, Dec 1964: "The Condemned Superman!"), as a "champion of the weak and helpless" (Act No.4, Sep 1938) whose life is a "constant battle against evil. .." (Act No.280, Sep 1961: "Brainiac's Super-Revenge!"). "Not only on Earth is '''Superman''' the greatest and most acclaimed of heroes," proclaims Superman No.168, "but on many other worlds across the universe as well!" (Apr 1964: pts. I-II-"Luthor--Super-Hero!"; "Lex Luthor, Daily Planet Editor!"). |
| − | "Everyone knows that Superman is the greatest hero of all time!" states Superman No.165/1. "A man who can move mountains, even planets...a man who has defeated the worst villains in history!" (Nov 1963: pts. I-II-"Beauty and the Super-Beast!"; "Circe's Super-Slave"). | + | "Everyone knows that '''Superman''' is the greatest hero of all time!" states Superman No.165/1. "A man who can move mountains, even '''planets'''...a man who has defeated the worst villains in history!" (Nov 1963: pts. I-II-"Beauty and the Super-Beast!"; "Circe's Super-Slave"). |
| − | "Today ," notes Superman No. 144/2, "Superman is the most famous crusader in the world, idolized everywhere for unselfishly using his incredible super-powers in behalf of justice" (Apr 1961: "Superboy's First Public Appearance!"). | + | "Today ," notes Superman No. 144/2, "'''Superman''' is the most famous crusader in the world, idolized everywhere for unselfishly using his incredible super-powers in behalf of justice" (Apr 1961: "Superboy's First Public Appearance!"). |
In addition, the texts contain these descriptions: | In addition, the texts contain these descriptions: | ||
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Action Comics No.6, November 1938: | Action Comics No.6, November 1938: | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Dedicated to assisting the helpless and oppressed, is a mystery-man named SUPERMAN. Possessing super-strength, he can jump over a ten-story building, leap an eighth of a mile, run faster than an express train, lift tremendous weights, and crush steel in his bare hands!-- His amazing feats of strength become more apparent day after day! | + | Dedicated to assisting the helpless and oppressed, is a mystery-man named '''SUPERMAN'''. Possessing super-strength, he can jump over a ten-story building, leap an eighth of a mile, run faster than an express train, lift tremendous weights, and crush steel in his bare hands!-- His amazing feats of strength become more apparent day after day! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Action Comics No.7, December 1938; and others: | Action Comics No.7, December 1938; and others: | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Friend of the helpless and oppressed is SUPERMAN, a man possessing the strength of a dozen Samsons! Lifting and rending gigantic weights, vaulting over skyscrapers, racing a bullet, possessing a skin impenetrable to even steel, are his physical assets used in his one-man battle against evil and injustice! | + | Friend of the helpless and oppressed is '''SUPERMAN''', a man possessing the strength of a dozen Samsons! Lifting and rending gigantic weights, vaulting over skyscrapers, racing a bullet, possessing a skin impenetrable to even steel, are his physical assets used in his one-man battle against evil and injustice! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Action Comics No.8, January 1939: | Action Comics No.8, January 1939: | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Leaping over towering buildings, rending steel in his bare hands, lifting incredible weights high overhead, impervious to bullets because of an unbelievably tough skin, racing at a speed hitherto unwitnessed by mortal eyes...these are the miraculous feats of strength which assist SUPERMAN in his one-man battle against the forces of evil and oppression! | + | Leaping over towering buildings, rending steel in his bare hands, lifting incredible weights high overhead, impervious to bullets because of an unbelievably tough skin, racing at a speed hitherto unwitnessed by mortal eyes...these are the miraculous feats of strength which assist '''SUPERMAN''' in his one-man battle against the forces of evil and oppression! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Action Comics No.27 , August 1940: | Action Comics No.27 , August 1940: | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Heartless criminals exploit the helpless and unfortunate! Clark Kent and his dual self, dynamic SUPERMAN, battle side by side with pretty Lois Lane, courageous girl reporter, to stamp out the evil geniuses of crime and corruption! | + | Heartless criminals exploit the helpless and unfortunate! Clark Kent and his dual self, dynamic '''SUPERMAN''', battle side by side with pretty Lois Lane, courageous girl reporter, to stamp out the evil geniuses of crime and corruption! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.1014, May-June 1941: | Superman No.1014, May-June 1941: | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Foe of all interests and activities subversive to this country's best interests, SUPERMAN loses no time in going into action when he encounters a menace to American democracy. Super-strength clashes with evil super-cunning in another thrilling, dramatic adventure of today's foremost hero, the daring, dynamic ''MAN OF TOMORROW--SUPERMAN | + | Foe of all interests and activities subversive to this country's best interests, '''SUPERMAN''' loses no time in going into action when he encounters a menace to American democracy. Super-strength clashes with evil super-cunning in another thrilling, dramatic adventure of today's foremost hero, the daring, dynamic ''MAN OF TOMORROW--'''''SUPERMAN'''!! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.1614, May-June 1942: "Racket on Delivery": | Superman No.1614, May-June 1942: "Racket on Delivery": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | No sterner or more courageous battler in behalf of justice is there than Superman, amazingly strong champion of the helpless 'and oppressed! | + | No sterner or more courageous battler in behalf of justice is there than '''Superman''', amazingly strong champion of the helpless 'and oppressed! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.2511, November-December 1943: "The Man Superman Refused to Help!": | Superman No.2511, November-December 1943: "The Man Superman Refused to Help!": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Superman, amazing nemesis of evildoers, champion of the helpless and oppressed, comes to the aid of all worthy individuals in need of assistance. | + | '''Superman''', amazing nemesis of evildoers, champion of the helpless and oppressed, comes to the aid of all worthy individuals in need of assistance. |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.6411, May-June 1950: "Professor Lois Lane!": | Superman No.6411, May-June 1950: "Professor Lois Lane!": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Faster than a speeding bullet! Able to hurdle the highest mountain! More powerful than an atomic cyclotron! That's Superman, eternal foe of the | + | Faster than a speeding bullet! Able to hurdle the highest mountain! More powerful than an atomic cyclotron! That's '''Superman''', eternal foe of the underworld, champion of the underdog! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Action Comics No.204, May 1955: "The Man Who Could Make Superman Do Anything!": | Action Comics No.204, May 1955: "The Man Who Could Make Superman Do Anything!": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Faster than a speeding bullet! More powerful than a locomotive! Able to leap the highest mountain! That's Superman; the world's mightiest mortal. | + | Faster than a speeding bullet! More powerful than a locomotive! Able to leap the highest mountain! That's '''Superman'''; the world's mightiest mortal. |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.96/1, March 1955: "The Girl Who Didn't Believe in Superman!": | Superman No.96/1, March 1955: "The Girl Who Didn't Believe in Superman!": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | From the jungle-wilds of Africa, to the skyscrapers of New York, the name of Superman has spread its fame! His Herculean strength, his super-battles against evil, are familiar to all.... | + | From the jungle-wilds of Africa, to the skyscrapers of New York, the name of '''Superman''' has spread its fame! His Herculean strength, his super-battles against evil, are familiar to all.... |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.12013, March 1958: "The Human Missile": | Superman No.12013, March 1958: "The Human Missile": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Stronger than the very gravity that holds Earth in place...faster than the swiftest jet...more invulnerable than a mile-thick slab of steel, the incredible Superman can scoff at all weapons aimed at him! | + | Stronger than the very gravity that holds Earth in place...faster than the swiftest jet...more invulnerable than a mile-thick slab of steel, the incredible '''Superman''' can scoff at all weapons aimed at him! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Superman No.152/2, April 1962: "Superbaby Captures the Pumpkin Gang!": | Superman No.152/2, April 1962: "Superbaby Captures the Pumpkin Gang!": | ||
<table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | <table bgcolor="#dddddd"><tr><td> | ||
| − | Today the whole world rings with Superman's fame! In the far corners of the Earth men tell of how the Man of Steel uses his fantastic super-powers to help the forces of law and order against evildoers! | + | Today the whole world rings with '''Superman''''s fame! In the far corners of the Earth men tell of how the '''Man of Steel''' uses his fantastic super-powers to help the forces of law and order against evildoers! |
</td></tr></table> | </td></tr></table> | ||
Friend and foe alike have paid tribute to Superman's heroism, and the texts have hailed him as "a giant among men" (8 No.7012, May/Jun 1951: "The Life of Superman!") and as the "mightiest of mortals" (S No, 84/2, Sep/Oct 1953: "A Doghouse for Superman!"). An unidentified U.S. Navy admiral once described Superman as "the greatest hero of all time" (Act No.284, Jan 1962: "The Babe of Steel!"), and the master of ceremonies on a television special glowingly introduced him as "our greatest American hero" (Act No.309, Feb 1964: "The Superman Super-Spectacular!"). | Friend and foe alike have paid tribute to Superman's heroism, and the texts have hailed him as "a giant among men" (8 No.7012, May/Jun 1951: "The Life of Superman!") and as the "mightiest of mortals" (S No, 84/2, Sep/Oct 1953: "A Doghouse for Superman!"). An unidentified U.S. Navy admiral once described Superman as "the greatest hero of all time" (Act No.284, Jan 1962: "The Babe of Steel!"), and the master of ceremonies on a television special glowingly introduced him as "our greatest American hero" (Act No.309, Feb 1964: "The Superman Super-Spectacular!"). | ||
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=Origin= | =Origin= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==The Original Account== | ==The Original Account== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Addenda and Revisions== | ==Addenda and Revisions== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Secret Identity= | =The Secret Identity= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Costume= | =The Costume= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Fortress of Solitude= | =The Fortress of Solitude= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Super-Powers= | =The Super-Powers= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Derivation of the Super-Powers== | ==Derivation of the Super-Powers== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Super-Speed and the Power of Flight== | ==Super-Speed and the Power of Flight== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Super-Strength== | ==Super-Strength== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Invulnerability== | ==Invulnerability== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==X-Ray Vision and the Other Optical Powers== | ==X-Ray Vision and the Other Optical Powers== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Super-Hearing== | ==Super-Hearing== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Super-Breath and Related Powers== | ==Super-Breath and Related Powers== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Vocal and Ventriloquistic Powers== | ==Vocal and Ventriloquistic Powers== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Mental and Intellectual Powers== | ==Mental and Intellectual Powers== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Miscellaneous Powers== | ==Miscellaneous Powers== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Vulnerabilities= | =The Vulnerabilities= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Kryptonite== | ==Kryptonite== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===Green Kryptonite=== | ===Green Kryptonite=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===Red Kryptonite=== | ===Red Kryptonite=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===Gold Kryptonite=== | ===Gold Kryptonite=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===Blue Kryptonite=== | ===Blue Kryptonite=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===White Kryptonite=== | ===White Kryptonite=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Magic== | ==Magic== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Virus X== | ==Virus X== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Other Vulnerabilities== | ==Other Vulnerabilities== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Equipment= | =The Equipment= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Lead Armor== | ==Lead Armor== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Dummies, Robots, and Androids== | ==Dummies, Robots, and Androids== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Miscellaneous Equipment== | ==Miscellaneous Equipment== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Man Himself (as Clark Kent)= | =The Man Himself (as Clark Kent)= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Man Himself (as Superman)= | =The Man Himself (as Superman)= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Women of the Chronicles= | =The Women of the Chronicles= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==The Relationship with Lois Lane== | ==The Relationship with Lois Lane== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==The Relationship with Lana Lang== | ==The Relationship with Lana Lang== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==The Relationship with Lori Lemaris== | ==The Relationship with Lori Lemaris== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==The Relationship with Lyla Lerrol== | ==The Relationship with Lyla Lerrol== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==The Relationship with Sally Selwyn== | ==The Relationship with Sally Selwyn== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Relationship with the Law-Enforcement Establishment= | =The Relationship with the Law-Enforcement Establishment= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
=The Texts= | =The Texts= | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Locales== | ==Locales== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
==Developments== | ==Developments== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===''The Early Adventures''=== | ===''The Early Adventures''=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===''The Wartime Adventures''=== | ===''The Wartime Adventures''=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===''The Postwar Adventures''=== | ===''The Postwar Adventures''=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
===''The Later Adventures''=== | ===''The Later Adventures''=== | ||
| + | ''in progress'' | ||
Revision as of 14:22, 12 February 2005
Overview
Superman. A world-famous crime-fighter and adventurer who has, for almost seven decades, battled the forces of crime and injustice with the aid of an awesome array of superhuman powers, including X-ray vision, the power of flight, and strength far beyond that of any ordinary mortal. Born on the planet Krypton, the son of the scientist Jor-El and his wife Lara, he was launched into outer space in an experimental rocket ship to enable him to escape the cataclysm that destroyed his native planet, and, arriving on Earth, was taken into the home of Jonathan and Martha Kent, who named him Clark Kent and raised him to manhood as their adopted son. Endowed with mighty super-powers in the alien environment of Earth, this orphan from Krypton--named Kal-El by his parents--has, since mid-1938, battled the forces of evil as Superman, while concealing his true, extraterrestrial identity beneath the alternate identity of Clark Kent, mild-mannered reporter for the Metropolis Daily Planet, more recently a full-time newscaster for Metropolis television station WGBS-TV.
Superman is "Earth's mightiest hero" (S No. 128/1, Apr '59: chs. 1-2-"Superman versus the Futuremen"; "The Secret of the Futuremen"), a "colorfully-costumed, mighty-sinewed man of might" engaged in "an unrelenting battle against the forces of evil" (S No. 21/4, Mar/Apr 1943: "The Ghost of Superman!"). He is "the world's number one champion of justice and fair play" (S No. 130/3, Jul 1959: "The Town That Hated Superman!") and "mankind's foremost crusader for good" (S No. 181/2, Nov 1965: "The Superman of 2965!"), "a fighting champion of justice who is famous the world over" (Act No.45, Feb 1942). Described as "the world's most dynamic man" (WF No.8, Win 1942: "Talent, Unlimited!") and the "world's mightiest mortal" (WF No.116, Mar 1961: "The Creature from Beyond!"; and others), he is "mankind's greatest friend" (Act No.310, Mar 1964: "Secret of Kryptonite Six!"), a "mighty foe of all evil" (Act No.91, Dec 1945: "The Ghost Drum!"), a super-powered "savior of the helpless and oppressed" (Act No.18, Nov 1939).
Superman No. 1/1 calls Superman "the greatest exponent of justice the world has ever known" (Sum 1939), and other texts describe him as "the law's most powerful defender" (Act No.177, Feb 1953: "The Anti-Superman Weapon"), as "the greatest of all heroes" (Act No.210, Nov 1955: "Superman in Superman Land"), and as a "defender of democracy" (S No. 13/1, Nov/Dec 1941) who has chosen to "dedicate [his] powers to the good of all humanity!" (S No. 121/1, May 1958: "The Bride of Futureman!"). "There is one man that people throughout the world honor and respect," notes Superman No. 128/1,, "--and that man is Superman!" (Apr 1959: chs.1-2-"Superman versus the Futuremen"; "The Secret of the Futuremen").
Superman is "an incredibly muscular figure" (WF No.6, Sum 1942: "Man of Steel versus Man of Metal!"), "indestructible and cosmic in his gigantic strength" (Act No.131, Apr 1949: "The Scrambled Superman!"), a tireless "sentinel for the world" (Act No.282, Nov 1961: "Superman's Toughest Day!") whose "incredible super-powers. ..have made him a living legend...!" (S No. 160/1, Apr 1963: pts. I-II-"The Mortal Superman!"; "The Cage of Doom!"). He is also the "most famous man in America" (Act No.143, Apr 1950: "The Bride of Superman!"), "patriot number one" (S No. 12/3, Sep/Oct 1941), the indefatigable "foe of all interests and activities subversive to this country's best interests" (S No. 10/4, May/Jun 1941). Everywhere, "in big cities...small towns...rural villages...the name of Superman is honored and loved!" (S No. 130/3, Jul 1959: "The Town That Hated Superman!").
Indeed, "throughout the universe, Superman is hailed as a mighty champion of justice" (Act No.319, Dec 1964: "The Condemned Superman!"), as a "champion of the weak and helpless" (Act No.4, Sep 1938) whose life is a "constant battle against evil. .." (Act No.280, Sep 1961: "Brainiac's Super-Revenge!"). "Not only on Earth is Superman the greatest and most acclaimed of heroes," proclaims Superman No.168, "but on many other worlds across the universe as well!" (Apr 1964: pts. I-II-"Luthor--Super-Hero!"; "Lex Luthor, Daily Planet Editor!").
"Everyone knows that Superman is the greatest hero of all time!" states Superman No.165/1. "A man who can move mountains, even planets...a man who has defeated the worst villains in history!" (Nov 1963: pts. I-II-"Beauty and the Super-Beast!"; "Circe's Super-Slave").
"Today ," notes Superman No. 144/2, "Superman is the most famous crusader in the world, idolized everywhere for unselfishly using his incredible super-powers in behalf of justice" (Apr 1961: "Superboy's First Public Appearance!").
In addition, the texts contain these descriptions:
Action Comics No.6, November 1938:
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Dedicated to assisting the helpless and oppressed, is a mystery-man named SUPERMAN. Possessing super-strength, he can jump over a ten-story building, leap an eighth of a mile, run faster than an express train, lift tremendous weights, and crush steel in his bare hands!-- His amazing feats of strength become more apparent day after day! |
Action Comics No.7, December 1938; and others:
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Friend of the helpless and oppressed is SUPERMAN, a man possessing the strength of a dozen Samsons! Lifting and rending gigantic weights, vaulting over skyscrapers, racing a bullet, possessing a skin impenetrable to even steel, are his physical assets used in his one-man battle against evil and injustice! |
Action Comics No.8, January 1939:
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Leaping over towering buildings, rending steel in his bare hands, lifting incredible weights high overhead, impervious to bullets because of an unbelievably tough skin, racing at a speed hitherto unwitnessed by mortal eyes...these are the miraculous feats of strength which assist SUPERMAN in his one-man battle against the forces of evil and oppression! |
Action Comics No.27 , August 1940:
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Heartless criminals exploit the helpless and unfortunate! Clark Kent and his dual self, dynamic SUPERMAN, battle side by side with pretty Lois Lane, courageous girl reporter, to stamp out the evil geniuses of crime and corruption! |
Superman No.1014, May-June 1941:
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Foe of all interests and activities subversive to this country's best interests, SUPERMAN loses no time in going into action when he encounters a menace to American democracy. Super-strength clashes with evil super-cunning in another thrilling, dramatic adventure of today's foremost hero, the daring, dynamic MAN OF TOMORROW--SUPERMAN!! |
Superman No.1614, May-June 1942: "Racket on Delivery":
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No sterner or more courageous battler in behalf of justice is there than Superman, amazingly strong champion of the helpless 'and oppressed! |
Superman No.2511, November-December 1943: "The Man Superman Refused to Help!":
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Superman, amazing nemesis of evildoers, champion of the helpless and oppressed, comes to the aid of all worthy individuals in need of assistance. |
Superman No.6411, May-June 1950: "Professor Lois Lane!":
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Faster than a speeding bullet! Able to hurdle the highest mountain! More powerful than an atomic cyclotron! That's Superman, eternal foe of the underworld, champion of the underdog! |
Action Comics No.204, May 1955: "The Man Who Could Make Superman Do Anything!":
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Faster than a speeding bullet! More powerful than a locomotive! Able to leap the highest mountain! That's Superman; the world's mightiest mortal. |
Superman No.96/1, March 1955: "The Girl Who Didn't Believe in Superman!":
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From the jungle-wilds of Africa, to the skyscrapers of New York, the name of Superman has spread its fame! His Herculean strength, his super-battles against evil, are familiar to all.... |
Superman No.12013, March 1958: "The Human Missile":
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Stronger than the very gravity that holds Earth in place...faster than the swiftest jet...more invulnerable than a mile-thick slab of steel, the incredible Superman can scoff at all weapons aimed at him! |
Superman No.152/2, April 1962: "Superbaby Captures the Pumpkin Gang!":
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Today the whole world rings with Superman's fame! In the far corners of the Earth men tell of how the Man of Steel uses his fantastic super-powers to help the forces of law and order against evildoers! |
Friend and foe alike have paid tribute to Superman's heroism, and the texts have hailed him as "a giant among men" (8 No.7012, May/Jun 1951: "The Life of Superman!") and as the "mightiest of mortals" (S No, 84/2, Sep/Oct 1953: "A Doghouse for Superman!"). An unidentified U.S. Navy admiral once described Superman as "the greatest hero of all time" (Act No.284, Jan 1962: "The Babe of Steel!"), and the master of ceremonies on a television special glowingly introduced him as "our greatest American hero" (Act No.309, Feb 1964: "The Superman Super-Spectacular!").
"How fortunate we are here in America to have someone of Superman's calibre to aid us!" remarked Secretary of the Navy Hank Fox in March-April 1942. "In my opinion, he's worth several armies and navies!" (S No. 15/2).
Jimmy Olsen has called Superman "the champion of justice and the enemy of evil all over the world" (S No. 176/2, Apr 1965: "Tales of Green Kryptonite No. 2"), and Lois Lane has described him as "the smartest, handsomest, strongest man in the universe" (S No. 176/3, Apr 1965: "Superman's Day of Truth!") and as an "--American crusader, crime's greatest foe, enemy of all injustice, the most powerful force for good the world has ever seen...!" (S No.17/1, Jul/Aug 1942: "Man or Superman?").
In May 1962, an unidentified escapee from the Phantom Zone refers to Superman as "Earth's greatest defender" (S No. 153/3: "The Town of Supermen!"), and in August 1964 the extraterrestrial gambler Rokk (see Rokk and Sorban) calls Superman the "guardian of Earth" (S No. 171/1: "Super- man's Sacrifice!").
"Though he wasn't born on this world," notes scientist Mel Evans at the annual Superman's Earthday celebration in Smallville in April 1960, "he has become Earth's greatest and most generous citizen!" (S No. 136/2: "The Secret of Kryptonite!").
Indeed, preliminary indications are that Superman's fame will be even greater in the future than it is today. A scientist of the thirtieth century A.D. has called Superman "the greatest hero in history" (WF No.91, Nov/Dec 1957: "The Three Super-Sleepers!"), and a man of the fiftieth century A.D. has echoed the sentiment, describing Superman as "the greatest hero in Earth's history" (S No. 122/1, Jul 1958: "The Secret of the Space Souvenirs").
In the texts, Superman is frequently referred to as the Man of Steel and the Man of Tomorrow. He is also referred to as the Action Ace, the Champion of Democracy, and the King of Speed.
In addition, the texts describe Superman as a "champion of justice" (S No. 9/1, Mar/ Apr 1941), an "amazing champion of the helpless and oppressed" (S No. 13/4, Nov/Dec 1941), "the world's foremost crime crusader" (S No.18/3, Sep/Oct 1942: "The Man with the Cane"), "the world's foremost justice-dispenser" (S No. 25/1, Nov/Dec 1943: "The Man Superman Refused to Help!"), "Earth's mightiest warrior" (S No. 38/1, Jan/Feb 1946: "The Battle of the Atoms!"), "the world's mightiest citizen" (S No. 40/2, May/Jun 1946: " A Modern Marco Polo!"), the "world's mightiest being" (S No. 65/3, Jul/ Aug 1950: "Three Supermen from Krypton!"), "the world's most famous citizen" (Act No.150, Nov 1950: "The Secret of the 6 Superman Statues!"), "the most amazing human of our century" (Act No.171, Aug 1952: "The Secrets of Superman!"), "the world's mightiest defender of justice" (Act No.178, Mar 1953: "The Sandman of Crime!"), "the mightiest man alive" (Act No.181, Jan 1953: "The New Superman"), "the world's mightiest man" (Act No.182, Jul 1953: "The Return of Planet Krypton!"; and others), "Earth's mightiest champion of justice" (Act No.225, Feb 1957: "The Death of Superman"), the "mightiest human being in all the world" (Act No.235, Dec 1957: "The Super-Prisoner of Amazon Island"), "Earth's mighty champion" (Act No.242, Jul 1958: "The Super-Duel in Space"), "the mightiest man on Earth" (Act No.247, Dec 1958: "Superman's Lost Parents!"; and others), "the Earth's most powerful man" (Act No.269, Oct 1960: "The Truth Mirror!"), a "famed battler against crime and injustice" (Act No.287 , Apr 1962: "Perry White's Manhunt for Superman!"), "Earth's protector" and "the heroic champion of Earth " (Act No. 327, Aug 1965: "The Three Generations of Superman!"), "the world's greatest hero" (Act No.328, Sep 1965: "Superman's Hands of Doom!"), "a defender of the weak and oppressed" and "the mightiest of all men" (S No. 164/1, Oct 1963: pts. I-II-"The Showdown Between Luthor and Superman!"; "The Super-Duel!"), the "greatest lawman of them all" (S No.178/2, Jul 1965: "When Superman Lost His Memory!"), and as "a defender of the helpless, [and] a champion of the underdog" (S No.14611, Jul 1961: "The Story of Superman's Life!").
Origin
in progress
The Original Account
in progress
Addenda and Revisions
in progress
The Secret Identity
in progress
The Costume
in progress
The Fortress of Solitude
in progress
The Super-Powers
in progress
Derivation of the Super-Powers
in progress
Super-Speed and the Power of Flight
in progress
Super-Strength
in progress
Invulnerability
in progress
X-Ray Vision and the Other Optical Powers
in progress
Super-Hearing
in progress
Super-Breath and Related Powers
in progress
Vocal and Ventriloquistic Powers
in progress
Mental and Intellectual Powers
in progress
Miscellaneous Powers
in progress
The Vulnerabilities
in progress
Kryptonite
in progress
Green Kryptonite
in progress
Red Kryptonite
in progress
Gold Kryptonite
in progress
Blue Kryptonite
in progress
White Kryptonite
in progress
Magic
in progress
Virus X
in progress
Other Vulnerabilities
in progress
The Equipment
in progress
Lead Armor
in progress
Dummies, Robots, and Androids
in progress
Miscellaneous Equipment
in progress
The Man Himself (as Clark Kent)
in progress
The Man Himself (as Superman)
in progress
The Women of the Chronicles
in progress
The Relationship with Lois Lane
in progress
The Relationship with Lana Lang
in progress
The Relationship with Lori Lemaris
in progress
The Relationship with Lyla Lerrol
in progress
The Relationship with Sally Selwyn
in progress
The Relationship with the Law-Enforcement Establishment
in progress
The Texts
in progress
Locales
in progress
Developments
in progress
The Early Adventures
in progress
The Wartime Adventures
in progress
The Postwar Adventures
in progress
The Later Adventures
in progress
