Man Of Ditko!

Steve Ditko's Superman ain't like anyone else's version. In this highly symbolic poster shot done for Superman #400 we see Superman standing proud between darkened corrupt enemies of society and order and presumably the preferred well-organized and upright citizens of a properly patriotic nation. That flag makes this a very American image. The deficiency is that the world seen here is a white one exclusively. I don't offer that up as a criticism or charge of any ill feeling on Ditko's part, but perhaps suggesting a blind spot. It's no accident that the man in the forefront is wearing an "A", Ditko's symbol of proper understanding of the universe in which "A is A". I find it striking that Superman here is breaking what appear to be Kryptonite chains, perhaps suggesting he's a figure now evolved beyond the limits of his heritage. That fact that he walks seemingly unafraid or perhaps even unaware of the darkness at his elbow is telling us that darkness is only scary when you stare into it, and lose your way. Superman here is clearing a path for his fellow men and women through the dangers of this universe. That sounds about right. 

But of course Ditko wasn't alone in that anniversary issue. Here are few more renditions of the Man of Steel  by a host of legendary artists. 

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