narrative essay about superheroes

How To Write a Superhero Story (Ultimate Guide + Examples)

Years spent weaving tales of heroes and villains in the shadows of my imagination have taught me one thing – crafting a superhero story is an art.

Here is a flyover summary of how to write a superhero story:

Write a superhero story by starting with a unique hero’s origin, crafting a compelling villain, building a supportive cast, and setting in a dynamic world. Balance action and character growth, and weave in real-world themes for depth.

There is still much more to know to get each detail of superhero story right. Let’s go!

What Is a Superhero Story?

Table of Contents

A superhero story transcends the mere depiction of characters with extraordinary powers.

It’s a saga that interweaves the struggles and triumphs of beings who, despite their superhuman capabilities, grapple with very human emotions and dilemmas.

These narratives often reflect our deepest desires for justice, bravery, and the triumph of good over evil.

At the heart of every superhero story is the timeless battle between good and evil.

It’s a timeless motif that has captivated humanity since the dawn of storytelling.

Yet, what sets these tales apart is their ability to inspire and uplift, showcasing how individuals can rise above adversity through courage, selflessness, and the strength of their convictions.

Types of Superhero Stories

Superhero stories can be as diverse as the universe they inhabit, each offering a unique lens through which to explore the human condition and the concept of heroism.

Here are a few types that stand out:

• Origin Tales: These stories delve into the genesis of the hero’s powers and their initial steps into heroism. They’re about transformation and the acceptance of a new identity.
• Epic Battles: Centered around monumental confrontations with villains or cataclysmic events, these stories test the hero’s limits and often have high stakes for the world or universe.
• Personal Journeys: Focusing on the inner struggles and growth of the hero, these narratives explore themes of identity, morality, and the burden of power.
• Team-Ups: Stories where heroes join forces to tackle threats no single hero could face alone, emphasizing themes of friendship, sacrifice, and unity.

Each type offers a different pathway to explore the essence of heroism, providing a rich tapestry of narratives that can captivate and engage audiences in myriad ways.

7 Key Elements of a Superhero Story

Crafting a superhero story involves more than just giving characters powers.

Rather, it’s about building a world and a narrative that’s compelling and emotionally resonant.

Here are seven critical elements to include:

1. The Hero

At the core of every superhero story is the hero—someone who, despite facing adversities, stands up for what’s right. Their character development is crucial, transforming from mere mortals into symbols of hope. For instance, Peter Parker’s transformation into Spider-Man emphasizes the weight of responsibility that comes with power.

2. The Villain

No hero can exist without a villain to challenge them. A well-crafted villain isn’t just an obstacle; they’re characters with motivations and backgrounds that explain their descent into darkness. Think of Magneto from X-Men, whose tragic past and complex motives blur the lines between hero and villain.

3. The Supporting Cast

Heroes rarely operate in a vacuum. A supporting cast of friends, mentors, or even rivals adds depth to the story, providing emotional support or additional challenges for the hero. Alfred Pennyworth’s role as Bruce Wayne’s confidant in Batman is a prime example.

4. The Setting

Whether it’s a bustling metropolis like Metropolis or a fictional universe, the setting plays a pivotal role in shaping the story. It’s not just a backdrop but an integral part of the narrative that influences the plot and the characters’ actions.

5. The Powers

Superpowers are a hallmark of superhero stories, but it’s the limitations and costs associated with these powers that make the narrative interesting. Superman’s vulnerability to Kryptonite adds a layer of suspense and vulnerability to his character.

6. The Conflict

Conflict is the engine of any story, driving the plot forward and forcing characters to grow. In superhero stories, this often takes the form of physical battles, moral dilemmas, or personal struggles, such as Tony Stark’s battle with his own demons in Iron Man.

7. The Theme

Themes in superhero stories often delve into larger societal issues, ethics, and the nature of power and responsibility. They encourage readers to reflect on their own moral compass and the impact of their actions on the world around them.

By weaving these elements together, you can create a superhero story that’s not only thrilling but also deeply meaningful and reflective of larger human truths.

Superhero Story Template

Creating a superhero story can be daunting, so here’s a basic template to help structure your narrative:

• Introduction: Establish the setting, introduce the protagonist in their ordinary world, and hint at their potential or upcoming change.
• Inciting Incident: Present the event that changes the protagonist’s world, thrusting them into a new reality or revealing their powers.
• Rising Action: Detail the hero’s first encounters with the villain, initial challenges, and the building of their team or acquiring of mentors.
• Climax: The hero faces off against the main antagonist in a battle that tests their limits and resolves the central conflict.
• Falling Action: Show the aftermath of the climax, how the hero and the world have changed, and tie up loose ends.
• Conclusion: Offer a glimpse into the hero’s new life, how they’ve grown, and set up potential future adventures.

You can consider this your Superhero Saga Scaffold, the foundation from which to erect your literary super-masterpiece.

13 Steps to Writing a Superhero Story that Readers Love

Now let’s break down the superhero story template (see above) into 13 specific and practical steps.

1. Genesis Spark

Before our hero can soar, they need a beginning—this is the Genesis Spark

It’s where we set the stage, introducing the world and the ordinary life of our protagonist. Here, the reader gets a glimpse of the status quo before everything changes.

This stage is crucial for establishing empathy and relatability.

Think of it as the calm before the storm, a snapshot of normalcy that’s about to be upended.

Whether it’s a bullied student, a disenchanted worker, or a restless noble, their current life sets the foundation for the transformative journey ahead.

2. Catalyst Comet

The Catalyst Comet is the moment that irrevocably changes the protagonist’s life, launching them onto their path of heroism.

It could be a freak accident, a hidden legacy revealed, or a deliberate choice in the face of crisis.

This step is about the inciting incident that endows them with powers, or makes the hero take up the mantle for justice.

It’s a dramatic, often unexpected event that thrusts the protagonist into a new, unfamiliar world.

The Catalyst Comet should be compelling and unique, leaving both the hero and the reader no choice but to plunge headfirst into the adventure.

3. Awakening Arc

In the Awakening Arc, our hero begins to understand and explore their new abilities or role.

This is a phase of trial and error, self-discovery, and often, secrecy.

It’s not just about mastering their powers but also about grappling with what it means to be a hero. This step is characterized by a mix of exhilaration and fear, as the protagonist navigates their dual life.

The Awakening Arc lays the foundation for the hero’s journey, highlighting their initial successes and failures.

It’s a personal journey that often involves mentorship, where the hero learns the limits and possibilities of their new existence.

4. Shadow’s Descent

Every hero needs a nemesis, and in the Shadow’s Descent, we introduce the antagonist in full force.

This villain isn’t just an obstacle; they’re a reflection of the hero’s darkest fears and a challenge to their ideals.

This step explores the villain’s motivations, origins, and plans, often mirroring the hero’s journey but with a twist towards darkness.

This is where the battle lines are drawn, setting up a personal and ideological conflict that will test the hero’s resolve, morality, and commitment to their cause.

5. Alliance Assembly

No hero stands alone, and in the Alliance Assembly, the protagonist begins to build their team.

This can include mentors, sidekicks, and allies, each bringing their own skills, wisdom, and sometimes, comic relief.

This step is about finding trust and camaraderie in others, learning to work as part of a team.

The formation of this alliance is crucial for the hero’s development, offering them support, advice, and additional resources in their fight against evil.

6. Trial by Fire

Trial by Fire is the hero’s first major test, a confrontation or challenge that pushes them to their limits.

This isn’t just about physical battles; it’s a test of character, revealing the hero’s resilience, ingenuity, and spirit.

This step often culminates in a temporary setback or loss, forcing the hero to confront their vulnerabilities and doubts.

It’s a pivotal moment that starkly highlights the gap between the hero’s current abilities and what they need to achieve to overcome their adversary.

7. Heart of Darkness

In the Heart of Darkness, the hero faces their lowest point.

This is a moment of profound doubt, loss, or failure, where all seems lost, and the hero’s mission feels futile

It’s a critical juncture that tests the hero’s will, making them question their path, their allies, and even their own worth.

This dark night of the soul is crucial for adding depth to the narrative, allowing for significant character development.

It’s here that the hero must confront their inner demons, often leading to a breakthrough or revelation that reignites their resolve.

8. Phoenix’s Rise

After the harrowing journey through the Heart of Darkness, the Phoenix’s Rise marks the hero’s resurgence from defeat with newfound strength, wisdom, and determination.

This step symbolizes the hero’s rebirth; they emerge from their trials with a clearer sense of purpose and a stronger will to fight.

It’s a powerful affirmation of resilience and the indomitable spirit of heroism.

The Phoenix’s Rise is often accompanied by a pivotal moment or realization that changes the course of the battle against evil.

9. Gathering Storm

With the hero reborn and their resolve strengthened, the Gathering Storm sets the stage for the final confrontation.

Tensions escalate as the villain’s plans reach fruition, threatening the world’s safety or the hero’s loved ones.

This step involves rallying allies, strategizing, and preparing for the inevitable clash. It’s a time of anticipation, where each move and decision carries weight, and the stakes are at their highest.

10. Epic Showdown

The Epic Showdown is the climactic battle between the hero and the villain, where all the narrative threads converge in a dramatic and decisive confrontation.

This is where the hero’s skills, allies, and inner strength are put to the ultimate test.

The showdown is not just a physical battle but a clash of ideals, showcasing the hero’s growth and their commitment to their cause.

It’s a moment filled with tension, action, and high stakes, designed to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The outcome of the Epic Showdown defines the future of the story’s world and marks a significant transformation in the hero’s journey.

11. Aftershock

Following the Epic Showdown, the Aftershock deals with the aftermath of the confrontation.

This step explores the consequences of the battle, the losses endured, and the victories achieved.

It’s a time for reflection, healing, and rebuilding, both for the hero and the world they’ve fought to protect.

The Aftershock is crucial for showcasing the impact of the hero’s journey, allowing characters to process their experiences and the reader to see the lasting changes in the story’s universe.

It provides closure to the conflict while opening avenues for future stories, highlighting the ongoing nature of the fight against evil.

12. New Equilibrium

The New Equilibrium establishes the hero’s life after their victory, showcasing how the journey has changed them and their world.

This step is about resolution and moving forward, as the hero adapts to their new role and the changes around them.

It’s an opportunity to tie up loose ends, celebrate successes, and acknowledge the sacrifices made.

The New Equilibrium reflects the hero’s evolution, their acceptance of their identity, and their readiness to face future challenges.

13. Legacy’s Echo

Finally, Legacy’s Echo looks to the future, hinting at the lasting impact of the hero’s actions and the enduring legacy they’ve created.

This step plants seeds for potential sequels or spin-offs, suggesting new adventures and challenges on the horizon.

It’s a nod to the hero’s influence on others, inspiring a new generation of heroes or foreshadowing future conflicts.

Legacy’s Echo ensures the story concludes with a sense of continuity and the promise that while one chapter ends, the saga of heroism is eternal.

How to Write a Good Superhero Story

Writing a good superhero story goes beyond the initial setup — it involves sustaining interest, developing characters, and delivering a satisfying narrative arc.

Consider these strategies when leveling up your superhero story:

Hero’s Heartbeat Method

Ensure that your hero and supporting cast undergo significant growth throughout the story. Their victories should come with personal cost and introspection, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their role as a hero.

Emotion-Action Balance Beam

While action scenes are vital, they should be balanced with moments of emotional depth and character interaction. These quieter moments allow for character development and thematic exploration, making the action sequences more impactful.

Mirror of Reality Technique

Grounding your story in real-world themes can add layers of complexity and relatability. Whether it’s tackling social justice issues, exploring the concept of identity, or examining the effects of power, these themes can elevate your story beyond the typical good vs. evil narrative.

Subvert Expectations

Don’t be afraid to take risks by subverting traditional superhero tropes. This could involve unconventional powers, morally gray characters, or unexpected plot twists. Keeping readers guessing can add excitement and freshness to your story.

Villain’s Virtue Blueprint

A great superhero story needs an equally great villain. Develop a villain with clear motivations, compelling backstory, and personal stakes in conflict with the hero. This creates a more engaging and dynamic narrative.

Here is a video about how to write a superhero story:

How to Start a Superhero Story

Starting a superhero story is about capturing the reader’s interest from the get-go, setting the tone for the adventure that lies ahead.

Here are some tips and examples:

Action Ignition Sequence

Begin with a scene that showcases the hero’s powers or hints at the central conflict. This immediate action grabs the reader’s attention and sets the stage for the narrative. For instance, imagine a story that opens with the hero saving a city from an impending disaster. This not only highlights their abilities but also establishes the stakes early on.

Origin Odyssey Opening

Another compelling way to start is by delving into the hero’s origin story. This approach allows readers to connect with the character on a personal level, understanding the circumstances that led them to become a superhero. A classic example is the tale of Bruce Wayne witnessing his parents’ murder, which lays the foundational motivation for becoming Batman.

Slice of Life Lens

Sometimes, starting with a slice of life moment before the hero discovers their powers or faces their first major challenge can create a relatable connection. It showcases their normal world before the extraordinary enters. For example, Peter Parker’s life as a high school student before being bitten by a radioactive spider gives readers a baseline for his character’s growth.

Villain’s Prelude Peek

Introducing the villain or hinting at their existence can create anticipation and tension from the beginning. A story could open with a mysterious figure orchestrating events from the shadows, setting the hero’s journey in motion.

How to Write a Superhero Story for Kids

Writing a superhero story for kids involves a few unique considerations to ensure it’s engaging, understandable, and appropriate for the audience.

Here is a short Superhero Kid Story Workshop:

• Simplify the Plot: While the story can still have depth, ensure the plot is straightforward and easy for children to follow.
• Relatable Characters: Create characters that kids can see themselves in, dealing with issues like friendship, self-confidence, and facing fears.
• Educational Elements: Incorporate lessons or moral dilemmas that teach values such as kindness, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork.
• Humor and Fun: Kids appreciate humor and fun in their stories. Including light-hearted moments or funny side characters can make the story more enjoyable.
• Vibrant Illustrations: For younger readers, including vibrant, engaging illustrations can help bring the story to life and aid in their understanding of the narrative.

Final Thoughts: How to Write a Superhero Story

Every superhero story needs a compelling and unforgettable superhero main character.

Learn what makes a great character-driven story about a mysterious and even god-like being in the articles below. I think you’ll really enjoy them.

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Superhero Short Story Examples: Short Stories About Superheroes (& Supervillains)

Regular short stories starring famous super heroes are hard to come by. The ones available seem to be written for children. If you’re looking for this kind, here are a few volumes to check out (Amazon):

Superhero Short Stories

The following short stories feature other heroes. These ones are written for teens or adults.

“Cookie Cutter Superhero” by Tansy Rayner Roberts

This story appears in the anthology  Kaleidoscope: Diverse YA Science Fiction and Fantasy Stories .  It can be read in the Amazon preview.

“Boom” by Andrew Gladman

The narrator wakes up with a nurse looking at him. His senses are heightened. He doesn’t know what’s wrong. He was working for a man named Hunt in a lab. He’s going to be sent back.

“Geek Gurl Rising” by Chris Pourteau

“villainous origins” by jessica west.

A woman is making her nightly walk home through the woods. A man attacks her, but she defends herself. He’s undeterred. She thinks about the time she met someone she called Justice. It was in the woods about twenty years earlier, when she was attacked by her stepdad.

“Lovesick: Chasing the Storm” by Agustin Guerrero

The narrator recounts some meetings between himself and another superpowered person. There were sparks at the first meeting. They fought and lived to fight another day. He relates the progression in their encounters.

“Flying Fast, Falling Hard” by Kim Strattford

Tom Sullivan was a pilot in the Air Force; now he doesn’t need a plane to fly. He meets with Marta, the head of the Superhero Alliance. Tom has been accepted for membership. There’s a condition, though: he has to improve his fighting ability. His training is to start immediately.

“Bedtime Story” by Scott Bachmann

“the token superhero” by david f. walker.

Alonzo Ramey was born with the genetic anomaly that causes superpowers. Fortunately, his powers were of the Standard variety. His father warns him that white folks wouldn’t take kindly to a colored boy with superpowers. He ends up getting offered a position with Teen Justice Force.

“Pygmalion” by Seanan McGuire

Find a Superhero Short Story, Cont’d

“Dream Knights” by L. A. Banks

“ms. liberty gets a haircut” by cat rambo.

Some of this story can be read in the preview of  Behind the Mask: A Superhero Anthology .

“There’s Going to Be a Fight in the Cafeteria on Friday and You Better Not Bring Batman” by Lamar Giles

The wild cards series.

The Wild Cards universe is populated with Aces and Jokers—people endowed with superhuman powers and those with bizarre conditions.

Essays About Heroes: 5 Examples And Topic Ideas

Here, we’ll look at examples of essays about heroes and questions that can be used as topics for essays about an imagined or real hero.

A few different images likely come to mind when you hear the word hero. You may imagine Superman flying above the world with his superpower of flight. You may imagine a personal hero, a real person who has made a significant impact on your life for the better. You might think of a true hero as someone who has shown heroic qualities in the public eye, working to help ordinary people through difficult situations.

When writing an essay about your life hero, it’s important to consider the qualities of that person that make them stand out to you. Whether you choose to write an essay about how your mom got you through tough times and became your role model or about a political figure who made a difference in the lives of people in history, it’s key to not just focus on the person’s actions—you’ll also want to focus on the qualities that allowed them to act heroically.

Here, we’ll explore examples of hero essays and potential topics to consider when writing about a hero.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers

Examples Of Essays About Heroes

• 1. These Are The Heroes Of The Coronavirus Pandemic By Ruth Marcus
• 2. Why Teachers Are My Heroes By Joshua Muskin
• 3. Martin Luther King Jr.—Civil Rights Activist & Hero By Kathy Weiser-Alexander

4. Steve Prefontaine: The Track Of A Hero By Bill O’Brian

5. forget hamilton, burr is the real hero by carey wallace, topic ideas for essays about heroes, 1. what makes a hero, 2. what are the most important characteristics of heroes in literature, 3. what constitutes a heroic act, 4. is selflessness required for heroism.

1.  These Are The Heroes Of The Coronavirus Pandemic  By Ruth Marcus

“Is this what they signed up for? There is some danger inherent in the ordinary practice of medicine, but not this much. I confess: I do not know that I would do the same in their circumstances; I am not sure I am so generous or so brave. If my child were graduating from medical school, how would I deal with her being sent, inadequately protected, into an emergency room? If my husband were a physician, would I send him off to the hospital — or let him back into the house in the interim?” Ruth Marcus

Healthcare workers have had no choice but to go above and beyond in recent years. In this essay, Marcus discusses the heroism of those in the healthcare field. He delves into the traits (including selflessness and courage) that make doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers heroes.

2.  Why Teachers Are My Heroes   By Joshua Muskin

“Teachers are my heroes because they accept this responsibility and try extremely hard to do this well even when the conditions in which they work are far from ideal; at least most do. Our jobs as society, education systems, and parents is to do our best to be strong allies to teachers, since their success is essential to ours.” Joshua Muskin

In this essay, Dr. Muskin discusses the many challenges teachers face and what parents, administrators, and education researchers can do to help teachers support students. Muskin explains that most teachers go above and beyond the call of duty to serve their classrooms.

3.  Martin Luther King Jr.—Civil Rights Activist & Hero   By Kathy Weiser-Alexander

“During this nonviolent protest, activists used boycotts, sit-ins, and marches to protest segregation and unfair hiring practices that caught the attention of the entire world. However, his tactics were put to the test when police brutality was used against the marchers, and King was arrested. But, his voice was not silenced, as he wrote his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” to refute his critics.” Kathy Weiser-Alexander

In this essay, Weiser-Alexander details both the traits and the actions of Dr. King before and during the civil rights movement. The author touches on King’s commitment to justice, persistence, and willingness to stand for his beliefs despite difficult circumstances.

“I remember this so vividly because Prefontaine was a hero to me, a hero in a way that no one was before, or really has been since. A British commentator once called him “an athletic Beatle.” If so, his persona was much more Lennon than McCartney. Actually, I thought of him more as Mick Jagger — or ultimately James Dean.” Bill O’Brian

A hero to many in the running world, Prefontaine’s confidence, unique style, and unmatched athletic ability have been heralded for decades. In this essay, O’Brian shares how he, as a distance runner during the era of Pre, related to his struggles and ambition.

“Burr fought against an ugly tide of anti-immigrant sentiment in the young republic, led by Hamilton’s Federalist party, which suggested that anyone without English heritage was a second-class citizen, and even challenged the rights of non-Anglos to hold office. In response, Burr insisted that anyone who contributed to society deserved all the rights of any other citizen, no matter their background.” Carey Wallace

In this essay, Wallace explains why Aaron Burr, the lifelong nemesis of founding father Alexander Hamilton, should be considered a historical hero. This essay exposes someone seen as a villain but much of society with a different take on their history. 

It can be interesting to think about your definition of a hero. When describing what the term hero means to you, you may want to choose a person (or a few people) you look up to as a hero to solidify your point. You might want to include fictional characters (such as those in the Marvel universe) and real-life brave souls, such as police officers and firefighters.

A word of caution: stay away from the cliche opening of describing how the dictionary defines a hero. Instead, lead-in with a personal story about a hero who has affected your life. While talking about a public figure as a hero is acceptable, you may find it easier to write about someone close to you who you feel has displayed heroic qualities. Writing about a family member or friend who has shown up as a heroic main character in your life can be just as exciting as writing about a real or imagined superhero.

From Beowulf to Marvel comics, heroes in literature take on many different traits. When writing an essay on what trait makes a hero come alive in a short story, novel, or comic, choose a few of your favorite heroes and find common themes that they share.

Perhaps your favorite heroes are selfless and are willing to put themselves last in the name of sacrifice for others. Perhaps they’re able to dig deep into the truth, being honest even when it’s hard, for the greater good. There’s no need to list endless heroes to make your point—choosing three or four heroes from literature can be a great way to support your argument about what characteristics define heroism in literature.

When someone is named a hero in real life, we often picture them saving people from a burning building or performing a difficult surgical operation. It can be difficult to pin down exactly what constitutes a heroic act. When writing about what constitutes a heroic act, think about people who go above and beyond, performing feats of courage, honesty, and bravery to support themselves or others. When writing about what constitutes a heroic act, discuss real-life or literary examples of heroes at work.

To many people, being a hero means giving back to others. While giving something away or trading in one’s well-being for others can certainly be seen as a heroic act, many people wonder if selflessness is required for heroism or if a hero can serve the greater good in a way that also supports their happiness. When writing about whether selflessness is required for heroism, choose examples from literature and real-life to support your point.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

If you’re still stuck, check out our available resource of essay writing topics .

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Ignite Your Superhero Storyline with 80+ Writing Prompts

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Writing Prompts

  Whether you’re a teacher looking to inject some fun and excitement into your writing curriculum, or an English Language Learners (ELL) instructor aiming to provide a relatable context for your students, superhero writing prompts can be a dynamic educational tool. The familiar and exciting themes offer a platform where students can freely express their ideas while improving their language skills.   Dive into this collection of handpicked superhero writing prompts, carefully curated to cater to various age groups and writing stages. So grab your pens, put on your creative capes, and discover the engaging narratives waiting to unfold, one prompt at a time.

How to use our superhero writing prompts for your students

Superhero writing prompts for primary school students

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How to Write About Superheroes

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Stephanie Burt, How to Write About Superheroes, American Literary History , Volume 32, Issue 3, Fall 2020, Pages 598–608, https://doi.org/10.1093/alh/ajaa018

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Eighty years after the first Superman comic, scholars are catching up to the importance, and to the popularity, of superheroes in comics and in other media. Recent monographs and edited collections examine racial politics, disabilities, other identities, and reception history across a range of decades and of superhero characters. Most of these worthy works remain within the limits of critique, judging the comics on how well they handle one or another theme; the result is a picture of superhero comics that cannot do justice to the genre. To them and to their like, the academic critics of the future might add—what vernacular comics critics already contribute—additional attention to what one or another character does best, to the transformative potential of even minor superhero work, and to how commercially produced superhero comics at their best handle narrative form.

One superhero symbol can work many ways, as Neal Curtis’s examination of Truth and other Captain America stories shows: Cap has repeatedly fought off right-wing doubles, alternatively costumed versions of himself who aspired to make America white again.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — My Heroes — My Favorite Heroes From Marvel

My Favorite Heroes from Marvel

• Categories: My Heroes Superhero

About this sample

Words: 893 |

Published: Dec 16, 2021

Words: 893 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Works Cited

• Buscemi, F. (2019). The Marvel Studios Phenomenon: Inside a Transmedia Universe. Bloomsbury Publishing.
• Daniels, L. (2016). Marvel's Iron Man : The Art of the Movie. Marvel.
• DeFalco, T., Sanderson, P., Brevoort, T., Teitelbaum, M., & Wallace, D. (2019). The Marvel Encyclopedia. DK.
• Howe, S. (2012). Marvel Comics: The Untold Story. Harper Perennial.
• Lee, S., & Mair, G. (2002). Excelsior!: The Amazing Life of Stan Lee. Simon & Schuster.
• McMillan, G. (2019). Marvel Comics: The Visual History. DK.
• Sacks, J., & Dallas, K. (2017). American Comic Book Chronicles: The 1970s. TwoMorrows Publishing.
• Shone, T. (2018). Marvel Studios' Visual Development. Marvel.
• Westfahl, G. (2014). The Marvel Comics Guide to New York City. St. Martin's Press.
• Yockey, M. (2017). X-Men: The Characters and Their Universe. Rowman & Littlefield.

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Home / Essay Samples / Life / Hero / Superhero

Superhero Essay Examples

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Tim Burton's ‘Batman’ represented what would come to be a norm with this genre, a front-loaded blockbuster, being at the Star Wars of its generation. Batman helped kill the template of the ‘Action Star’ alas a movie star vehicle. Michael Keaton’s casting, despite controversy, proved...

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The mythic character embodies a law, or a universal demand, and, therefore, must be in part predictable and cannot hold surprises for us; the character of a novel wants, rather, to be a man like anyone else, and what could befall him is as unforeseeable...

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When it comes to writing a critical analysis, movie critics do a lot of a great job, but after examining the reviews for Man of Steel it's clear that they have made a misconception. Man of Steel only received 56% on rotten tomatoes. That type...

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