Philosophical look at Superman

My presentation was originally going to display the parallels between Jung’s theories, as presented in his book Man and his Symbols, and the lives of an array of superheroes, both male and female. However, after starting to research the superheroes, I decided to focus on one of the most well-known: Superman himself. I made this decision because I felt the class would be most familiar with Superman and therefore the Jung’s theories would make more sense in the application.

One of the most prominent aspects of Superman is the diamond-shaped emblem featuring an “S” on the interior. Whether standing alone, or as seen on his cape, this is the universal symbol for Superman. As Jung describes, symbols not only represent something, but also are connotations with a deeper meaning. Often times, the symbol is used to represent something that cannot easily be grasped. In the case of Superman, the diamond-shaped emblem represents more than just the man. It is used to represent the doer of good and the corrector of evil. As Superman himself said, “I’m here to fight for truth, justice, and the American way!” What the symbol represents goes deeper than the superficiality of a mere man.

Another aspect of Superman is his duality. As a day job, he is known as Clark Kent, a reporter working with Lois Lane for the Daily Planet. However, when duty calls, Superman emerges from Clark Kent. According to Carl Jung, Superman/Clark Kent suffers from the common dissociation. His “conscious” persona is the Clark Kent piece. This side lives a life that is a farce. He uses it merely to conceal his identity so he can save the world. His “unconscious” persona is the piece that is Superman. He cannot deny his powers and moral obligations, even if it interferes with his conscious, Clark Kent. This part of his personality reflects his true self and his true nature.

A perfect example of dissociation as applied to Superman/Clark Kent is apparent in his interaction with Lois Lane. As Clark Kent, he is capable of having a legitimate relationship with fellow reporter, Lois Lane. However, when appearing as Clark Kent, no affections are reciprocated. On the flip side, Superman cannot have a legitimate relationship with Lois Lane; it would endanger not only her, but his duty and himself. Unfortunately, it is only when Superman has surfaced that Lois Lane’s affections surface as well.