Superheroes play an important role in society, even though they might not be real (I'm still not convinced - have you heard of Mother Teresa?). Superheroes have the ability to restore hope when we think all hope is lost. Everyone needs to be rescued at some point in their lives, and hero figures provide temporary escapes. Some people view superheroes as ideal role models, people whom you strive to imitate. Others enjoy their stories because of their imaginative nature. No matter what you think of them, superheroes are awesome, and the Creators at Franciscan University have some favorites.
1. Batman
"My favorite superhero is Batman because he's kind of an imperfect hero. He has some darkness to him and he's a little broken inside, but that doesn't stop him from trying to save people and giving all he has for his city."
2. Iron Man
"My favorite superhero is Iron Man. I like him because he is relatable -- no, we are not all genius billionaire playboy philanthropists. But Tony Stark makes mistakes, tries his best, and is loyal to his friends. Also, that suit is just too darn cool. Blueberry?"
3. Jessica Jones and Luke Cage
"My favorite superheroes are Jessica Jones and Luke Cage. I love the idea that everyday people like you and me have the ability to be superheroes, and these two heroes bring me hope that people are inherently good and that a single person can make a difference in the world."
4. Captain America
"My favorite superhero is and probably always will be Captain America. And no, it's not because he is played by Chris Evans in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It's because he is just a guy from Brooklyn who wants to fight for his country. Call me a patriot, but sometimes I don't see the determination of our generation to fight in the same way that the generation before us fought. I love Captain American for his values and his patriotism."
5. The Flash
"Though Iron Man is my favorite hero, DC deserves some love, too. This summer, The Flash ran away with my heart. Barry Allen may be the fastest man alive (though sometimes debatable), but he is also a smart, selfless dork, and I love him for that."
6. Doctor Strange
"I am a HUGE fan of Dr. Strange because his character is so raw and real. He is a cocky, arrogant, successful surgeon who discovers humility and self-sacrifice, in addition to his special powers which are thebomb.com. If a jerk like him can end up saving the world, then so can the average criminal, never mind a simple, decent human being."
7. Raven
"I have to say, the comics' character Raven has always been my favorite. The way that she is misunderstood, but still protects all those who misunderstand her; how she is wary of everyone, but trusts her friends with her life; and how she is dark, but not evil."
8. Captain Underpants
"He kicks ass while never taking life too seriously!"
9. Black Panther
"I like Black Panther because he is a great leader of his country as the King of Wakanda. He is one of the first and greatest black superheroes in comics."
10. Hawkeye
"Everything the guy gets, he earns. The man has no superpowers, and yet he competed with gods because he works hard."
Superheroes provide us with hope, lead us on adventures, and create an imaginative world where the good guys tend to be the winners. They help us see the good in others and remind us that every person needs help sometimes. Our favorite superheroes have been there for us during our lives. Who is your superhero? Is it Superman or Wonder Woman? The Hulk or Thor? Or is it your mom or dad? Anyone can be a superhero, so long as we find the courage to put on the cape.
