Superwoman’s Legacy: Why Absolute Superman Highlights Another Heroine’s Worthiness

Warning! Spoilers ahead for Absolute Superman #3! While Lois Lane’s portrayal as Superwoman has captivated many fans, Absolute Superman introduces a compelling contender for the title. Lois recently acquired superpowers, and while she has excelled, a genuine Kryptonian—Kal-El’s mother, Lara—might also deserve recognition as Superwoman.

Exploring Jor-El’s Dilemma in Absolute Superman #3

In the latest issue, Absolute Superman #3, penned by Jason Aaron and illustrated by Rafa Sandoval, a nostalgic flashback unveils a pivotal moment from Kal-El’s childhood. This scene highlights Jor-El’s courageous attempts to warn his fellow Kryptonians about their planet’s catastrophic fate, which ultimately led to his incarceration for heresy. Upon returning to Krypton, Kal-El informs his mother, Lara, who then equips herself with an armor she has been meticulously crafting, along with a formidable lava-shooting weapon.

Lara Jor-El Wearing Sol Power Suit in Absolute Superman #3

Lara, wielding her impressive arsenal, boldly confronts the Law Guild in search of Jor-El. With assistance from Krypto, she successfully navigates their defenses and liberates Superman’s father from captivity.

Lara Jor-El: A Strong Contender for Superwoman

The Legacy of Superwomen in Comics

Throughout comic history, various interpretations of Superwoman have emerged, each varying between hero and adversary. The latest version, which sees Lois Lane don the Superwoman mantle, originated from a surprising twist involving a power swap during the climax of Absolute Power. By harnessing the technology linked to the Amazos who drained metahuman powers, Lois inadvertently acquires General Zod’s abilities, allowing her to step into the role of Superwoman, joining her husband in the protection of the DC Universe.

Despite her brief tenure as Superwoman, Lois has shown remarkable dedication, seamlessly managing the Daily Planet while thwarting menacing threats like Doomsday in Metropolis. Meanwhile, Lara’s prowess in Absolute Superman illustrates an alternate yet equally compelling aspect of Kryptonian strength. She not only designs the armor that enhances Superman’s abilities on Earth but also showcases her tactical brilliance by rescuing Jor-El. This raises an important question: if Lois can embody the Superwoman identity, why shouldn’t Lara be equally worthy?

A Shared Legacy of Superwoman

Embracing Multiple Heroes

Lois Lane has embraced her identity as Superwoman and should retain that title for the foreseeable future. However, her reign does not preclude the possibility of other Superwomen. Currently, Lana Lang is recognized as ‘Superwoman Red’, which designates Lois as ‘Superwoman Blue.’ The established multiverse allows for narrative flexibility, implying that Lara could be acknowledged as the initial Superwoman within the framework of Absolute Superman.

Lara stands as a testament to intelligence and tenacity, qualities that not only inspire Superman but also resonate with audiences. Both Lois Lane and Lara Jor-El represent powerful role models deserving of the Superwoman title, paving the way for a richer narrative tapestry within the DC Universe.

Absolute Superman #3 is now available from DC Comics.

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