DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

Sean Lorenz

Gloria Shin

Visual Culture

October 9, 2017

The Changing Body

            When comparing the same timeless hero in a context that doesn’t reflect a change in symbolism, instead a change in the social re-imagining of the timeless hero known as superman. It must be analyzed from a social construct point of view. Throughout history the ideology that is “Superman” as never changed but once looking at the depiction we can see how the image of what the “perfect” male body has changed with the time.

            In the “1978 Superman” portrayed by Christopher Reeve, certain characteristics are emphasized. For example, his chest is out, back straight and shoulders back, and arms are “muscular” as well. He is a least six feet tall and carries a sharp piercing stare. Then looking at “2013 Superman” played by actor Henry Cavill, the basic ideologies and specific emphasizes on body parts has not changed. In fact, is is exactly the same, the only real differences, is the technology that is used allowing these “traits” to be emphasized even more prominently. Still, Superman’s chest is large, shoulders are broad, and arms are muscular. The way he carries himself is also held to the same standard, with a serious face and piercing eyes.

            In conclusion, the ideology and social image that is held as the “perfect” male body has not changed vastly over the time. Instead, I believe technology and advancements in society has changed, allowing a high degree of emphasis on these traits the create the “perfect” male body. Creating an image is becoming hard to mimic, creating thus creating unhealthy habits.

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.