In the very beginning of comic books, women played a very small role. Then came a time when Superman and Captain Marvel dominated the comics era and women continued taking a backseat. Stories revolved around a woman in danger and Superman saving the woman’s life. No relationship or learning is developed about the woman, how she got there or about any of her background information. Women have also been used as sex symbols and have been objectified in various comic strips in the very beginning. I would like to state my argument by analyzing two very different superheroes.
Wonder woman was one of the primitive female superheroes that were introduced at a time where male-dominated comic books were in demand. She is one of the only female superheroes to be mentioned as DC’s “big three” alongside Batman and Superman. In a time when the superhero genre was predominantly male, the idea of a female being portrayed as a strong, powerful and just figure to the youth was something that was a huge step. She created a charisma and sex appeal that none during her time could have created. And the time at which the wonder woman comic was introduced, was a time when a lot of feminist theories were said and written. All this lead to the first success of a female superhero and also spurred a lot of talk with regards to Wonder Woman being a feminist symbol.
Black Widow, who, like Wonder Woman represents another level of uniqueness. She develops a thought-provoking idea on conventional gender stereotypes by comprising the masculine traits both physically and psychologically and challenges the expectations of female superheroes.
Looking closer at Wonder Woman’s physical representation, she had long hair, the face of a mature woman, slim but muscular and was portrayed with a realistic approach. She had clothes that showcased her body and curves and also had ornaments like the golden bracelet to show her flamboyance.
Black widow, on the other hand, is portrayed as a woman with not too long hair, sharp looks, covered completely in a tight black suit that showcases her curves.
Both these female superheroes provide a contrast between the first and current superheroes and how they differ in terms of looks or portrayal. Times have changed.
Both these women are always considered as icons of female superheroes. They have been pioneers in bringing about change in the thinking and perception of people towards female dominated superheroes. And according to me, they have the charisma, strength and power to capture the audience and develop a point that women superheroes could be as dominant as their male counterparts.
