Explaining Superman's Outfit | What? Why? When? Podcast | Episode 6 | University of Oxford

Why does Superman wear his underwear over his tights? Why the cape, the bright colours, and the chest logo? In this episode Dr Matt Williams is joined by Oxford history undergraduates Danny and Andy to unravel the surprising historical, cultural, and psychological origins behind Superman’s iconic costume.

As well as discussing circus strongmen, Nietzsche's Übermensch, and American patriotism in comic book subcultures, this episode explores;

The visual psychology behind Superman’s look
How masculinity and power are coded in superhero design
Why Clark Kent’s hair parting matters
The shift from traditional superheroes to anti-heroes
Superman vs Batman, postmodernism, and politics

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[This podcast was produced in the SOUTHWORKS Digital Media Lab at Jesus College Oxford, with thanks to, and in partnership with, SOUTHWORKS.]