The superhero genre began in earnest with the debut of in Action Comics #1 (1938). Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman established the "blueprint" for the genre: a secret identity, a distinctive costume, and nearly limitless power. This was followed by the creation of Batman (1939), who proved that a superhero could also be a mortal human relying on intellect and technology. Defining Characteristics
These can range from superhuman strength and flight to magic or high-tech gadgets. SuperhГ©roes
Superheroes generally refuse to kill and act out of a selfless sense of justice. The superhero genre began in earnest with the
Explored darker, more mature themes, moral ambiguity, and the deconstruction of the hero archetype (as seen in works like Watchmen ). Cultural Impact Cultural Impact Most superheroes share a specific set
Most superheroes share a specific set of traits that define them within the genre: