“I was repelled by the egotism which I had more than once
observed to be a strong factor in my friend’s singular character” (“The Copper
Beeches”)
To fight crime and save the city, both Holmes and Batman are
shown to be ‘superhuman’ in their abilities and characters, though neither is
from Planet Krypton. However, both appear to be at times compassionate, at
times completely indifferent; sometimes invincible, and sometimes completely
fallible. If both characters create the prototype of the superhero, what really
makes them tick? What is the literary DNA of a costumed crimefighter, and how
have other superheroes (both of the costumed and the plain clothes variety)
followed in their example?
In this paper, I want you to discuss how both Doyle and
Miller examine the essential makeup of the ‘superhero.’ How do they think, act,
feel, and respond to their surroundings? Why
do they do what they do? What are their flaws? ALSO, are there any significant
differences? Do both authors agree on what qualities it would take to be a
superhuman crimefighter? Do you have to be a sociopath? Or just a bit insane?
Do you have to care too much for people? Or not enough? Would Holmes be Batman
in the 21st century? Or would they become rivals?
ADDITIONALLY, I want you to compare these works to ONE
modern ‘superhero’ who you feel is descended from one or both heroes. This
could be a literal superhero such as Iron Man, Captain America
REQUIREMENTS:
- At least 3-4 pages double spaced
- QUOTE from both books for support, though you can use one more than the other; but don’t just quote once from each book and call it a day—consider what you need to show us to make a convincing argument
- Compare to one modern ‘hero’ that you find relevant; discuss this hero and give context for the show/book/movie they appear in. Make connections for your reader.
- Use MLA format throughout and include a Works Cited page
- DUE
Friday, April 5th by
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