Superman emerged from the imagination of two Jewish teenagers in 1930s Cleveland, framed by his Kryptonian heritage and Methodist upbringing. Though religious symbols are absent from Superman’s narrative, his portrayal over more than eighty years aligns him with figures of divine essence, such as a savior with Christ-like sacrifices, a leader of Moses’ caliber, and a benevolent being akin to a bodhisattva.
Scholars and aficionados have long noted religious themes in Superman comics. However, Superman’s unique ability to infuse hope into a despairing world is what sets him apart from his superhero counterparts. On Superman Day, fans commemorate his 87th year, eagerly waiting for James Gunn’s upcoming film “Superman,” set for release on July 11, starring David Corenswet as the first Jewish actor to portray this iconic hero. This film intends to reintroduce a vulnerable and value-driven Superman, rooted in empathy, goodness, and the promise of hope.
The film has kindled a renewed discussion on Superman’s ethical stance in a modern context where superheroes often lean towards being anti-heroes. Corenswet shared in an interview with Fandango his admiration for Superman lies in the hero’s unwavering belief in humanity’s good, urging people to focus on daily positives rather than dwelling on negatives. Gunn also emphasized that his rendition of Superman would solidify the character’s core belief in preserving life above all else, starkly contrasting with the philosophy of his nemesis, Lex Luthor.
For individuals like Robert Revington at the Vancouver School of Theology, Superman represents optimistic ideals, having once prompted him to skydive clad in a Superman suit for his 28th birthday. Revington, a Christian, appreciates the hopeful representation of Superman, preferring not to merge the character with Christ-like images. Instead, he views Superman as a model of positive masculinity, a bastion of strength intertwined with compassion—qualities often absent in some contemporary figures of influence.
Key portrayals such as “All-Star Superman” published by DC Comics have resonated with fans and creators like Grant Morrison, who drew inspiration from philosophical works suggesting humanity should strive to be more virtuous than angels. In a 2008 discussion, Morrison noted his portrayal of Superman as an inspirational character who empowers humans to aspire to their better selves.
Matthew Brake, editor of Pop Culture and Theology, reflects on Superman’s role in motivating us toward self-improvement. Superman’s formative years as a Kansas farm boy, raised by Jonathan and Martha Kent, shaped his character profoundly, with their Methodist background influencing the hero’s moral foundation.
While the portrayal of superheroes in popular culture has often veered toward critical or darker reflections as seen with characters like Homelander from “The Boys” or Omni-man from “Invincible,” Superman maintains his place as a relatable and inspiring figure. This enduring role is reinforced by creators like Gene Luen Yang, who sees reflections of his own experiences in Superman’s dual identity.
Yang’s work, notably in “Superman Smashes the Klan,” explores relevant societal themes through the lens of Superman’s narrative. The parallel struggles between cultural identities resonate with Yang’s own life, highlighting how Superman’s dual identity as Kal-El and Clark Kent mirrors the cultural navigation many experience. While Superman’s Jewish origins were instrumental to his creators, Yang emphasizes Superman’s universal appeal and narrative relatability transcending specific religious identifications.
Samantha Baskind, a professor at Cleveland State University, draws connections between Superman’s story and Jewish history, including parallels with historical events like the Kindertransport. His Kryptonian name, Kal-El, resonates with divine connotations and connects with his visits to the “Bottle City of Kandor,” reflecting diasporic ties similar to Jewish traditions of visiting cultural homelands.
Despite religious readings and interpretations of Superman, his universal appeal lies in a broader American civil religion framework, providing a paradigmatic sense of belonging beyond traditional religious narratives. Neal Bailey of Superman Homepage suggests that Superman extends beyond traditional religious confines by championing human potential and empathy over doctrinal adherence.