Some have argued that our fascination with superheroes stems from our desire to believe in perfection or in the possibility of transcending the human in us. Why, then, are we attracted to less-than-perfect or even flawed superheroes (as proven by Watchmen hitting the spot as the best-selling graphic novel of all time, Magneto having more sympathizers than Professor X, and Clark Kent in his latest incarnation is no longer his goody two-shoes/naive farm boy self)?
The answer is SIMPLE - the changing times have brought a paradigm shift and a new definition to the word "Superhero". In my opinion, flawed superheroes or less-than perfect ones show us that anyone can be a hero even those who are weak, imperfect and evil. It is much more relatable since we, as human beings, are flawed too. We are capable of committing mistakes and making bad judgments. That, I believe, is the common ground for humans and superheroes.
Instead of focusing on their strengths, however, they are highlighting the weaknesses. From there, these superheroes draw their strength and work on their flaws in order to be better. This is precisely because we are all a work in progress. Also, it is easier to distinguish good from evil especially if one starts out with a dark past until he/she eventually gets out of it and is pulled towards the good side. There is more gratification and fulfillment upon seeing the change in our very eyes. Always remember that a good story plot is not one that ends well but rather one that shows how the characters have developed through time. In this case, what makes a superhero as one is how he/she faces the same problems as we humans do yet stands out with how different they choose to handle the situation.
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