Short Paper #1 Assignment

Paper #1: The Science of Superheroes

“Somebody has to do it, don’t you see?  Somebody has to save the world…” (Watchmen, Ch.2, page 11). 

In your first paper, I want you to examine the metaphor of superheroes which have arguably become our 20^th/21^st century mythology.  We know, too, that they are metaphors, since they are reinterpreted for each new generation (Superman, Batman, etc.) and represent ideas which are more symbol than substance.  Yet, the idea of an alter ego ties reminds us that they are “us,” a metaphor we’ve consciously invented to view the world through the frame of science fiction (or fantasy).  Superheroes continue to live because they continue to speak to us, as much for their image of superhuman abilities as well as the uneasiness of what those powers might bring—for ourselves, and for all humanity.

Using Wells’ The Invisible Man and Moore/Gibbons’ Watchmen, I want you to answer one of the following questions in a short 5-6 page essay.  Each question can lead to a variety of answers and should not be considered to have an obvious answer; as with most literary questions, the answer lies in your perspective and how you can make the books “speak” to your discussion. 

·         What is the essential difference between a superhero and a supervillain?  Both want to change or save the world, and both, at some point, are viewed as criminals.  Is being a hero/villain a state of mind?  A moral conviction?  Or is it simply egotism and madness?  In other words, what separates Griffin and Rorschach?  Captain America and the Comedian? 

·         How do modern-day superheroes (including Watchmen) consciously play on the original script of Wells’ The Invisible Man?  Where do we see the seeds of the modern superhero/villain in the exploits of Griffin, who sought to institute the “Epoch of the Invisible Man”?  How might many of our current heroes—and anti-heroes—be traced to his prophetic example?

·         While superheroes and villains are often presented in very black and white terms (good vs. evil), the reality is far more complex.  How does the narration of both books change how we perceive the metaphors of superheroes/villains?  Consider how the storytelling techniques of a comic challenge the perspective of this straightforward storyline, and how Wells’ unusual narrative style offers us a distinct look at the making of the first super villain. 

REQUIREMENTS:

·         5-6 pages, double spaced using MLA format, Works Cited

·         At least 2 outside sources, helping you respond to the conversation of superhero science fiction, H.G. Wells’ novels, or Moore’s novels (check the blog for source ideas)

·         DUE Friday, February 13^th by 5pm (in my office—no e-mail if possible)