When reading Morrison’s book one is able to understand why he is so obsessed with superheroes. Well, who wouldn’t be with the way he describes the way reading these comic books helped him to find his passion, pass the time, or escape his everyday life and immerse himself in the love triangles, struggles, and triumphs of the godlike creatures created by Marvel and DC Comics. Seeing his reason for adoring superheroes made me think about why I love superheroes so much. Now I didn’t read any comics (except for Archie), but I remember watching movies about Batman and thinking “Wow! This is someone who fights for what he believes in and never backs down, even if the odds are stacked against him.” This began my superhero obsession.
When I was little my grandma gave me a book of fairy tales and I used to love reading about the brave leading women and the men who saved them or were saved by them (i.e. Bell in Beauty and the Beast, Mulan, etc.). I tried to model myself after these brave women. These women who, regardless of their plight, would take the time to help anyone who asked them and were genially kind and caring people. The morals taught in these children’s books helped to shape into the person I am today. And when I discovered superheroes it was like my favorite fairy tales on crack! Batman was so concerned with riding the streets of evildoers that he committed his life to that single purpose; sacrificing himself for others. How much more moral can you get?? So some of my education in moral ethics I learned from fairy tales and then I graduated to superheroes! I am completely fascinated with the entire concept of extraordinary individuals that seek justice even in the face of danger.
I really enjoyed how you stated that superheroes are fairytales on crack. I definitely laughed out loud. I think it is interesting to compare how us girls (typically) grew up believing in princesses and love and such while boys (Once again, typically) looked to superheroes for life lessons and guidance. It is amazing how much can be learned and reflected on from these fictional characters.
ReplyDeleteI also laughed out loud at that comment. It is very astute. It made me think about this:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.buzzfeed.com/rebeccae/disney-princess-superheroes
You are also on to something in regard to the stories that are coded as "girl's stories" and those that are coded as "boy's stories" by our culture. This is in large part why Wonder Woman was created, as we will soon discuss in class. I'm glad you discovered superheroes and were able to see how they can be similar teachers of moral ideas but with a lot more ass-kicking.
I also loved reading fairy tales when I was younger. Taking you to a faraway place and learning new things was usually more interesting than real life, so I also loved reading about superheroes because of that also.
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