The Journey of Nietzsche's 'Ubermensch' to Modern Day Superman

When one delves into the works of philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, one might initially think his greatest invention was the telephone. However, he indirectly created a character that has had a profound impact on our culture: the Superman.

Nietzsche's Influence and 'Ubermensch'

Friedrich Nietzsche, a prominent figure in German philosophy, coined the term 'Ubermensch,' a concept that has been translated into English as 'Superman.' This German term was originally intended to represent a hypothetical future human who could surpass the current state of humanity. Nietzsche envisioned an individual who transcends conventional moral boundaries, embracing an enhanced form of self-overcoming through willpower and the creation of new values.

The term 'Ubermensch' has been translated in various ways, such as 'Ultra Man,' contrasting it with other connotations of the English term 'Superman.' However, Nietzsche's concept of the Ubermensch goes far beyond simply being a powerful individual. It is a paradoxical idea that upends traditional values and societal structures, advocating for the rejection of limitations and the pursuit of an ideal state of being that surpasses the current status quo.

Jewish Teenagers and the Graphic Novel Evolution

The journey of Nietzsche's Ubermensch to modern-day Superman was further shaped by the actions of two Jewish teenagers: Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. These young men, in the aftermath of World War II, created a graphic novel that would introduce, and directly challenge, Nietzsche's original concept.

Initially, Siegel and Shuster's Superman was a character embodying elements of the Nietzschean Ubermensch. Yet, this version was portrayed as the embodiment of evil: selfish, narcissistic, and desiring to rule the world. This interpretation was likely influenced by the dark realities of the Nazi regime and the resiliency of the Jewish population during and after the war. The image of Superman as an embodiment of evil served as a powerful statement against the ideologies that had caused the war and the Holocaust.

However, the creators eventually decided to diverge from Nietzsche's concept. They envisioned a Superman who would be the polar opposite of the Nietzschean ideal. The new version of Superman would fight for those who could not fight for themselves and prioritize the well-being of humanity, especially those without power. This reinterpretation was a bold and conscious effort to address and counter the nefarious aspects of Nietzsche's philosophy.

The Comic Book Superman

The Superman created by Siegel and Shuster is the one that persists in popular culture today. He is a symbol of hope, justice, and the inherent goodness in humanity. The transformation from the Nietzschian Ubermensch to the modern-day Superman is a testament to the dynamic nature of cultural and philosophical ideas. It highlights how ideals can be reinterpreted and evolved in response to societal changes and personal reflections.

This evolution of Superman demonstrates the complexity of Nietzsche's philosophical influence. While the Ubermensch concept inspired a character capable of great evil, it also provided inspiration for a character who stands for the utmost in human goodness. The story of how Nietzsche's Ubermensch became the modern-day Superman is a fascinating one, illustrating both the potential dangers and the powerful positive transformations that ideas can have on culture and society.

Conclusion

The journey from Nietzsche's Ubermensch to the modern Superman is a testament to the enduring impact of philosophical ideas on popular culture. It shows how a concept can be reinterpreted and evolved to serve different purposes and values. The legacy of Nietzsche's work continues to influence our understanding of human potential and ethical responsibility.