Before the mighty Superman soared the skies, before his iconic “S” shield became a symbol of hope and justice, there was another hero. A hero who was created in the shadows of World War I, during a time when the world was in desperate need of hope and inspiration. This hero was known as the “Man of Tomorrow,” and his story has been lost in the annals of history. In this article, we will delve into the origins of this forgotten superhero and explore how his legacy laid the foundation for the creation of the Man of Steel, Superman. Get ready to discover the unknown hero who came before Superman and learn how his story still resonates today.
The Birth of the Superhero Genre
The Emergence of Masked Vigilantes
In the early 20th century, the world was in the midst of rapid change. Industrialization had transformed society, and the horrors of World War I had left a generation traumatized. In this context, the emergence of masked vigilantes as a new type of hero was a natural response to the fears and anxieties of the time. These characters, who donned costumes and secret identities to fight crime and injustice, were the forerunners of the modern superhero.
The Scarlet Pimpernel (1905)
The Scarlet Pimpernel, created by British author Emma Orczy, was one of the earliest masked vigilantes. The story follows a wealthy Englishman who rescues French aristocrats from the guillotine during the French Revolution. Disguised as a foppish idiot, he outwits the French authorities and smuggles his charges to safety. The character’s popularity led to numerous adaptations, including a play, a novel, and several films.
The Shadow (1931)
The Shadow, created by writer Walter B. Gibson, was another influential masked vigilante. The character first appeared in pulp magazines and went on to become a popular radio show, film serial, and comic book. The Shadow was a master of disguise and a skilled fighter, using his knowledge of the criminal underworld to bring wrongdoers to justice. His influence can be seen in later superheroes like Batman.
The Phantom of the Opera (1910)
The Phantom of the Opera, created by French writer Gaston Leroux, is perhaps the most famous of the early masked vigilantes. The story follows a mysterious, disfigured musical genius who becomes obsessed with a young soprano. He uses his extraordinary abilities to terrorize the Paris Opera House and win the girl’s affection. The character has since become a pop culture icon, inspiring numerous adaptations in film, stage, and literature.
These early masked vigilantes paved the way for the modern superhero, incorporating elements such as secret identities, extraordinary abilities, and a desire to fight crime and injustice. They captured the imagination of the public during a time of great uncertainty and served as a reminder that hope can be found even in the darkest of times.
The Influence of Mythology and Folklore
The roots of the superhero genre can be traced back to ancient mythology and folklore, where tales of extraordinary beings with exceptional abilities and courage were passed down through generations. These stories have inspired creators to bring these characters to life in modern times, and the Man of Steel’s predecessor is no exception.
- Heracles (Greek mythology)
Heracles, also known as Hercules in Roman mythology, was a demigod and the son of Zeus and a mortal woman. He was renowned for his incredible strength and bravery, completing twelve arduous labors as penance for a crime he did not commit. Heracles’ story showcases the idea of a hero who surpasses human limitations and battles against evil, a theme that resonates with the modern superhero genre.
- Beowulf (Old English epic poem)
Beowulf is an Old English epic poem that tells the story of a hero who battles against monsters and protects his people. Beowulf, a Geatish warrior, fights against the monster Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and a dragon, showcasing bravery and strength in the face of adversity. His story is one of courage and selflessness, as he willingly faces certain death to save his people.
- Gilgamesh (Sumerian king)
Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk in Sumerian mythology, is considered one of the earliest superheroes. He is renowned for his strength, courage, and wisdom, as well as his quest for immortality. In the Epic of Gilgamesh, he embarks on a journey to find the secret of eternal life, encountering numerous challenges and overcoming them with his prowess. The tale of Gilgamesh reflects the archetype of the hero’s journey, a concept that has become a staple of the superhero genre.
These ancient stories of Heracles, Beowulf, and Gilgamesh illustrate the origins of the superhero archetype and serve as a foundation for the modern superhero genre. Their stories have inspired creators to develop new characters that embody the ideals of strength, courage, and selflessness, and the Man of Steel’s predecessor is a testament to this rich legacy.
The Creation of Superman: The First Superhero
The Influence of Mythology and Folklore on Superman
Krypton (planet) and Jor-L (father) – Greek mythology and biblical figures
Krypton, the doomed planet where Superman hails from, and Jor-L, his father, bear striking similarities to the Greek mythological figure Icarus and the biblical story of Noah.
In Greek mythology, Icarus was a craftsman who, along with his father, Daedalus, was imprisoned in a tower by King Minos. To escape, Daedalus crafted wings made of feathers and wax for himself and Icarus. He warned Icarus not to fly too close to the sun, but the young man’s hubris led him to ignore his father’s advice. As a result, the wax melted, and Icarus fell to his death. This tragic tale shares similarities with the destruction of Krypton, which was doomed due to the planet’s inhabitants’ hubris and lack of foresight.
Jor-L, Superman’s father, also has parallels with the biblical figure Noah. In the story of Noah, God tells Noah to build an ark to save his family and a pair of every animal species from a great flood that will destroy the earth. Similarly, Jor-L, through his scientific prowess, creates a spaceship to save his family and other Kryptonians from their doomed planet. Both Jor-L and Noah display remarkable foresight and ingenuity to save their loved ones and preserve their legacies.
Clark Kent/Superman – Heracles/Hercules, Beowulf, and Gilgamesh
Clark Kent/Superman’s character has been influenced by various mythological and historical figures, including Heracles/Hercules, Beowulf, and Gilgamesh.
Heracles, the Greek demigod son of Zeus, was tasked with completing twelve labors to atone for a murder he committed in a fit of madness. One of his labors involved cleaning the Augean stables, which had not been cleaned in years, and Heracles completed this task in a single day. Superman, like Heracles, possesses immense strength and can accomplish seemingly impossible feats, such as moving planets or stopping speeding trains.
Beowulf, the protagonist of the Old English epic poem, is a hero who battles monsters and saves his people. Beowulf’s courage, strength, and determination are mirrored in Superman’s unwavering commitment to protecting Earth and its inhabitants.
Finally, Gilgamesh, the historical king of Uruk in Sumeria, is considered the first great hero in human history. He sought immortality after the death of his friend Enkidu and embarked on a journey to find the secret of eternal life. While Superman does not explicitly seek immortality, his story parallels Gilgamesh’s in that both characters have great power and use it to protect their people.
In conclusion, the character of Superman has been deeply influenced by mythology and folklore, drawing inspiration from figures such as Icarus, Noah, Heracles, Beowulf, and Gilgamesh. These influences have shaped Superman’s story, character traits, and role as a hero, making him a unique and enduring figure in the world of comics and popular culture.
The Birth of the Modern Superhero
- Reimagining mythology and folklore in a modern context
- Introducing new archetypes: the hero, the mentor, the love interest, the villain
In the early 20th century, the concept of the superhero was born. It was a time when technology was advancing at a rapid pace, and people were looking for new forms of entertainment and escapism. The first superhero, Superman, was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938. They took inspiration from classical mythology and folklore, and reimagined these stories in a modern context.
Superman was the first hero to have a fully fleshed-out origin story. He was not just a powerful being, but a man with a tragic past who used his powers to help others. This was a new archetype, the hero, who would go on to become a staple of the superhero genre.
But Superman was not just a hero. He also had a mentor, Professor Samuel H. Pierce, who guided him in his quest for justice. This archetype, the mentor, would also become a staple of the superhero genre.
And then there was Lois Lane, Superman’s love interest. She was not just a love interest, but a strong, independent woman who could hold her own against the Man of Steel. This archetype, the love interest, would also become a staple of the superhero genre.
Finally, there was Lex Luthor, Superman’s nemesis. He was not just a villain, but a complex character with his own motivations and desires. This archetype, the villain, would also become a staple of the superhero genre.
With the creation of Superman, the modern superhero was born. The genre would go on to evolve and change over the years, but the archetypes created by Siegel and Shuster would remain a staple of the genre.
The Predecessor of Superman: Doc Savage
The Rise of Doc Savage
The Birth of a Legend
Doc Savage, often referred to as the “Man of Bronze,” was the creation of pulp fiction writers Henry R. Kravitz and Maurice Koppel. In 1933, they introduced the world to this iconic character in the novel “Doc Savage.” The story revolves around a protagonist who possesses extraordinary physical and mental abilities, making him an exceptional scientist, detective, and adventurer.
The “Scientific Detective”
Doc Savage is a pioneering figure in the realm of detective fiction, often referred to as the “Scientific Detective.” His prowess in scientific investigation and his keen intellect set him apart from other detectives of his time. Doc Savage employs advanced techniques, including forensic analysis and laboratory experiments, to solve even the most intricate of cases. His scientific approach to crime-solving paved the way for a new breed of detectives, who relied on reason and evidence rather than intuition and conjecture.
Physical and Mental Perfection
One of the most remarkable aspects of Doc Savage is his pursuit of physical and mental perfection. He possesses a rigorous regimen of exercise and diet that allows him to maintain his exceptional strength, agility, and endurance. Furthermore, his intellect is similarly elevated, with a photographic memory and an IQ of 187. This combination of physical and mental prowess makes him an almost invincible force against crime and injustice.
Doc Savage’s popularity soared during the 1930s and 1940s, with over 300 novels chronicling his adventures published during this time. His influence can be seen in various aspects of popular culture, including comic books, films, and television shows. Although his popularity waned with the decline of the pulp fiction era, Doc Savage remains an essential figure in the history of superheroes and detective fiction.
The Influence of Doc Savage on Superman
The Similarities in Origin Stories and Abilities
Superman’s creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, were avid fans of Doc Savage, a pulp fiction hero who debuted in 1933. Doc Savage, also known as “The Man of Bronze,” was a scientist, adventurer, and crime-fighter who led a team of skilled individuals in various missions. The character’s influence on Superman is evident in their shared origin stories and superhuman abilities.
Doc Savage and Superman both originated from extraterrestrial worlds. Doc Savage was raised on Earth by a scientist and possessed enhanced physical abilities due to his rigorous training and exposure to various forms of radiation. Similarly, Superman was born on the planet Krypton and arrived on Earth as an infant, gaining his powers due to Earth’s yellow sun.
Both characters also exhibit a strong sense of morality and a desire to protect the innocent. Doc Savage, as the “Man of Bronze,” embodies a stoic and analytical approach to his missions, while Superman, as the “Man of Steel,” uses his powers to uphold truth and justice.
Furthermore, Doc Savage and Superman share a number of superhuman abilities, such as incredible strength, speed, and endurance. They can both leap great distances and are highly resistant to injury. In addition, Doc Savage’s ability to master various skills and knowledge, often in a short period, can be seen in Superman’s rapid learning and adaptability.
These similarities in origin stories and abilities demonstrate the influence of Doc Savage on the creation of Superman. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster drew inspiration from the pulp fiction hero to develop their own superhero, who would eventually become an iconic figure in American pop culture.
The Influence of Doc Savage on Popular Culture
The Shadow and the Pulp Era
The Shadow, a character created by Walter B. Gibson in 1931, was one of the most popular and influential pulp fiction characters of his time. The Shadow was a crime-fighter who used his exceptional intellect, martial arts skills, and connections in the criminal underworld to solve crimes and bring justice to the city.
The pulp magazines, which emerged in the early 20th century, were a popular form of fiction that featured sensational and often lurid stories. The Shadow was one of the most popular characters featured in these magazines, and his popularity helped to establish the pulp genre as a staple of popular culture.
The Shadow’s influence on the superhero genre can be seen in the creation of other iconic superheroes, such as Batman and Superman. The Shadow’s use of disguise and his skills as a detective and crime-fighter were direct influences on the creation of these characters. Additionally, the Shadow’s pulp fiction roots helped to shape the larger-than-life, adventure-filled stories that have become synonymous with the superhero genre.
Overall, the Shadow’s influence on popular culture, particularly in the realm of superheroes, cannot be overstated. His creation and popularity helped to pave the way for the superheroes we know and love today.
The Legacy of Doc Savage and the Man of Steel
The superhero archetype has undergone a significant evolution since the first appearance of Doc Savage in 1933. This early pulp hero was the prototype for many of the iconic superheroes that followed, including the Man of Steel. While Superman may be more widely recognized today, it is essential to understand the lasting impact of Doc Savage on the superhero genre and the ways in which his legacy continues to influence contemporary superheroes.
One of the most significant contributions of Doc Savage to the superhero archetype was the establishment of the “super” in the hero’s name. While other characters may have had extraordinary abilities, Doc Savage was the first to embody the concept of the superhero as a near-invulnerable, physically and mentally superior being. His strength, intelligence, and courage set the standard for superheroes to come, including Superman.
In addition to his physical prowess, Doc Savage also introduced the concept of the superhero as a scientific expert. His knowledge of various fields, including chemistry, engineering, and biology, allowed him to solve crimes and protect the innocent using cutting-edge technology. This aspect of the superhero archetype was also incorporated into the Man of Steel’s character, with Superman using his incredible powers to fight crime and protect the citizens of Metropolis.
The influence of Doc Savage on the superhero genre can also be seen in the way that both he and Superman were seen as symbols of hope and justice during times of great social upheaval. In the 1930s, Doc Savage was a beacon of hope for a nation struggling through the Great Depression, while Superman was a symbol of American ideals during World War II.
Despite the passage of time, the legacy of Doc Savage continues to influence contemporary superheroes. The character’s influence can be seen in the countless superheroes that have followed in his footsteps, each building on the foundation that he laid. Even Superman, the most famous superhero of all time, owes a debt to Doc Savage, who set the standard for the superhero archetype and paved the way for the Man of Steel’s eventual creation.
FAQs
1. Who was the first superhero?
The first superhero is a matter of debate, but some argue that it was Captain America, who first appeared in 1941. Others suggest that it was The Phantom, a character who has been in publication since 1936. However, there were also other superheroes that were created before these characters, such as Mandrake the Magician, who first appeared in 1934.
2. Was Superman the first superhero with superpowers?
No, Superman was not the first superhero with superpowers. The Phantom, for example, gained his powers through a mystical skull, while Mandrake the Magician could hypnotize people and make them do his bidding. Superman was, however, one of the first superheroes to have powers based on strength, speed, and invulnerability.
3. What inspired the creation of Superman?
The creation of Superman was inspired by a number of sources, including the adventure stories of pulp magazines, the scientific advancements of the time, and the mythology of ancient civilizations. The character was also influenced by the cultural climate of the time, which was experiencing significant social and political upheaval.
4. How did Superman become a superhero?
Superman’s origin story involves a space voyage that was sabotaged by his own people, causing his parents to send him to Earth as an infant. He is then raised by a kindly couple in Smallville, Kansas, where he discovers his powers and decides to use them to fight crime.
5. How did Superman’s powers develop over time?
Superman’s powers initially included super strength, super speed, and invulnerability. Over time, his powers expanded to include the ability to fly, X-ray vision, heat vision, and super-breath, among others. Additionally, his suit and cape became iconic symbols of his identity.
6. How did Superman change the superhero genre?
Superman was the first superhero to have a distinctive costume and iconic identity, and his creation marked a significant shift in the superhero genre. He was also one of the first superheroes to be depicted as having a moral code and a strong sense of justice, which would become defining characteristics of the genre.