Superman is a figure who elicits strong opinions among fans, yet few can contest his status as one of the premier superheroes in comic history. His extensive journey of facing diverse challenges and foes begs the question: what qualities define his greatness? While fans may cherish various moments of heroism and bravery, certain episodes stand out as quintessential demonstrations of his character. This article explores ten remarkable instances that showcase why Superman is considered the ultimate hero in the DC Universe.
10 Rebuilding an Apartment Brick by Brick
Action Comics #11
During the era of The New 52, Superman’s narrative was reinvented alongside the broader DC Universe. Despite the alterations, his core persona remained intact—kindness and a commitment to help those in need were still central to his character. In Action Comics #11, a robot named Metalek devastates an apartment complex, leaving its residents homeless. True to form, Superman doesn’t abandon them; instead, he rallies community support to rebuild the structure and spearheads the reconstruction efforts himself. This episode illustrates that Superman’s mission transcends mere protection; he actively nurtures and uplifts those affected by misfortune.
9 Trying to Save Lex Luthor From Cellular Decay
Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor #1
The dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor has long been tumultuous, yet in Superman: The Last Days of Lex Luthor, Clark Kane is confronted with an unexpected twist: Lex is critically ill. Suffering from cellular decay due to kryptonite exposure, Lex embarks on a public plea for help, effectively broadcasting his condition to the world, manipulating Superman’s dilemma under the gaze of millions. Despite his instinct to deny assistance to his adversary, Superman ultimately takes the high road and seeks a solution, involving advanced Kandorian scientists and weighing potential options like the Phantom Zone for Lex. This moment encapsulates Superman’s unwavering moral principle: helping others, regardless of past enmity.
8 Stopping a School Shooting Before It Begins
Superman: Birthright #6
Superman takes a staunch stand on protecting innocent lives. This principle is glaringly evident in Superman: Birthright #6, where he prevents a school shooting from occurring. Rather than merely apprehending the shooters, Clark tracks down the dealer responsible for selling firearms to minors and delivers an intimidating message regarding the potential harm. He demonstrates his resolve by firing a shot at the seller—one he catches effortlessly before it can cause harm. This moment reflects a more intense side of Superman, highlighting his readiness to employ unorthodox methods when the safety of children is at stake.
7 Lifting a Book with Infinite Pages
Final Crisis: Superman Beyond #1
Superman is often recognized for his immense strength; however, a standout moment occurs in Final Crisis: Superman Beyond #1. With Lois Lane’s life hanging in the balance, he teams up with Captain Marvel and Captain Atom through the multiverse. To repair their damaged ship, they must retrieve a book that contains all knowledge—an object with infinite pages, representing an unfathomable weight. Accepting the challenge, Clark and Captain Marvel work together to lift this monumental tome. This scene not only showcases Superman’s physical prowess but also his ability to collaborate effectively with fellow heroes, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
6 Liberating The Warworld from Mongul
Superman: The Warworld Saga
Superman’s commitment to justice is integral to his character. The storyline “The Warworld Saga”in Action Comics sees Clark brave perilous odds to liberate oppressed aliens from the tyrannical Mongul. Despite experiencing a decrease in his powers due to Warworld’s red sun, Superman presses on, determined to free those enslaved for entertainment. Captured and forced to compete in deadly arenas, Superman uses his indomitable spirit to inspire the aliens, proving that the true strength of a hero lies in their ability to uplift others in the face of adversity.
5 Breaking His Mind Control to Save Lois Lane
Batman #612
The concept of mind control over Superman poses a terrifying prospect, as seen in Batman #612, where the villain Poison Ivy ensnares him. While Batman employs various methods to combat this influence, our hero seems utterly trapped until the Dark Knight resorts to a more drastic measure—threatening Lois Lane’s life. It’s this profound emotional connection that empowers Superman to break free, enabling him to save Lois at the last moment. This episode highlights Superman’s resilience; even when under duress, his love and commitment to those he cares about remain unwavering.
4 Proving He’s Incorruptible to Manchester Black
Action Comics #796
Many believe Lois Lane is Superman’s only weakness, but Manchester Black becomes convinced that eliminating her will devastate him. In Action Comics #796, Manchester mistakenly believes he has won after seemingly killing Lois and taunting Superman. However, rather than succumbing to anger or despair, Clark maintains his moral high ground, resisting the urge to unleash his fury despite the intensity of his emotional turmoil. Despite the torment, he remains committed to justice, ensuring that Black will ultimately pay for his transgressions without losing his moral compass.
3 Defeating The Anti-Monitor To Stop A Crisis
Crisis on Infinite Earths #12
The Crisis on Infinite Earths arc is a compelling testament to heroism, introducing the fearsome Anti-Monitor, a being that poses an existential threat to the multiverse. As worlds collapse and countless souls perish, it is the Golden Age Superman alongside Superboy-Prime and Alexander Luthor, Jr. who makes a final desperate stand against this destructive force. Driven by loss and fueled by rage, Superman delivers a monumental blow that ultimately destroys the Anti-Monitor. This pivotal moment emphasizes Superman’s resilience and willingness to sacrifice everything for the greater good, marking him as a beacon of hope amidst chaos.
2 Defending Metropolis from Doomsday, To His Death
Superman #75
Superman’s legendary battle against Doomsday remains etched in the history of comic books. During an era when millions felt suspended in time, Superman faced an adversary whose destructive path threatened the very fabric of existence itself. Countless heroes faltered against Doomsday’s relentless fury, but Superman stood firm to protect Metropolis. Ultimately, their epic confrontation results in his own demise. This iconic narrative showcases Superman’s ultimate sacrifice, solidifying his status as a symbol of hope and resilience, even in the face of certain death.
1 Saving Regan on The Now-Iconic Rooftop
All-Star Superman #10
Not all remarkable moments involve world-shattering confrontations; some resonate purely through emotional connections. In All-Star Superman #10, Clark, faced with his mortality, takes a poignant moment to reach out to a desperate teenager on the brink of a tragic decision. He offers words of comfort and an embrace, demonstrating the profound impact of empathy and genuine human connection. This scene encapsulates Superman’s core strength: his ability to empathize deeply with others, illuminating that even amidst epic challenges, kindness can be a hero’s most powerful asset.
Related Articles:
First Look: Wes Anderson’s ‘The Phoenician Scheme’ Stuns at CinemaCon
4:46
‘Because I Knew You’: My Perspective After Watching ‘Wicked: For Good’ Footage
4:42
Cast of ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ Discusses Filming Challenges for Their New Dinosaur Adventure
23:47
Leave a Reply