Golden Age

In the previous post, I mentioned how superhero culture is categorized into eras of Golden, Silver, and Bronze. Superheros origin from changes in our society, in relation to real world events such as

World War II, The Nuclear Age, Great Depression, or the outbreak of AID. For the next few posts, I will discuss how the superhero culture acts as alternative media in each era - starting off with the Golden Age - broadcasts alternative ideologies to empower, change, and democratize people. 

The golden age of superheroes lasted from 1938 to the 1940s. This era is marked by iconic superheros such as Superman (DC) and Captain America (Marvel). This era started with the publication of Action Comics #1 by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, with Superman as the protagonist. The golden age set the standard for future superheros: super powers, secret identity, costume, and signifying symbol.

As the popularity of superhero comics expand, so did the formula for creating the superhero universe. The simplicity of superheroes became intertwined with ideas in reality. No longer, are the superheros only about saving the day, or chasing down villains. These caped forces of good are pit against the Axis power (ie. Germany). Even, before America entered World War II, dozens of America themed superheroes were created: The Shield, Miss America, Captain America, and many others; the patriotic fever was on full force. Superheroes would join the Army or Navy in their secret identities, and beat down Nazis or the Japanese. For instance, on the cover of Captain America No. 1, the hero socks Hitler.

Comic books about superheros took on an entirely different role than just to entertain. During the golden age, the Superhero genre as alternative media empowered North American citizen. In the 1930s, the American Dream was destroyed following the Great Depression. Superhero comics acted as an escapist form of entertainment for its audience. Marvel and DC were creating costumed heroes to symbolize the hopes of a nation faced with many difficulties.

The public desired for tales of  good triumphing over evil; it salvaged people during the war torn era. Tales of superheroes defeating the Facists or Nazis, brought hope to society in ways the government could not achieve. Superhero comics became a medium that delivers messages to its readers promoting patriotism. Patriotism and nationalism created pride and hope for one's country, creating a sense of protection, peace, and the idea that North America will not loose the war.