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10 male comic book characters who broke negative stereotypes

By Mark Lynch

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: A Superman costume from the 2013 Man of Steel film worn by Henry Cavill and designed by Michael Wilkinson and James Acheson is on display at the DC Comics Exhibition: Dawn Of Super Heroes at the O2 Arena on February 22, 2018 in London, England. The exhibition, which opens on February 23rd, features 45 original costumes, models and props used in DC Comics productions including the Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman films. (Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: A Superman costume from the 2013 Man of Steel film worn by Henry Cavill and designed by Michael Wilkinson and James Acheson is on display at the DC Comics Exhibition: Dawn Of Super Heroes at the O2 Arena on February 22, 2018 in London, England. The exhibition, which opens on February 23rd, features 45 original costumes, models and props used in DC Comics productions including the Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman films. (Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images) /
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10. Spider-Man

What this comic book character showed us: It’s okay to be emotional

There probably isn’t a better place to start than with the Amazing Spider-Man. He was one of the first comic book heroes to really be something we’ve never seen. While he had the super-strength and funny quips, Peter Parker was emotional in and out of his uniform. The best part is he was always proud of it.

He never hesitates to show much he loves his Aunt May and is always affectionate to whoever he is dating. He’s also never afraid to cry. On more than one occasion, Spider-Man has broken down in tears over a mistake he’s made or someone dying in general. It’s not easy to cry, and to do it in front of someone else takes inner strength.

Once upon a time, there was a stereotypical belief that men were supposed to stay hard and chew on nails and eat steak with our bare hands. Spider-Man has never been that guy. Despite being picked on as a teenager (and sometimes as an adult) Peter never changed himself. He also never became a bully… even though his powers could allow him to do so.

Furthermore, he’s always fought for the little guy and aided those who couldn’t help themselves. It wasn’t always with his fists either. As a teacher, Peter would use his words and resources to motivate his students however he could – especially those who loved science. He encouraged them to follow their dreams despite what people may say or think. The real world could use more teachers like that.

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