Why Does Lex Luthors Relationship with Superman Differ in Comics vs TV Shows?
Why Does Lex Luthor's Relationship with Superman Differ in Comics vs TV Shows?
The character of Lex Luthor, as portrayed in comics, TV shows, and movies, has undergone significant evolution over the decades. One stark contrast is his relationship with the iconic hero, Superman. While Luthor is a redesignated arch-enemy in comics, his portrayal in shows like Smallville and Supergirl paints a more nuanced and human picture. This article explores the reasons behind these differing portrayals and offers insights into the character development of Lex Luthor.
Lex Luthor's Evolution in Comics
In the Golden Age of comics, from the 1940s to the early 1960s, Lex Luthor was initially cast as a villainous thug turned mad scientist. His primary goal was to instigate global conflict, which he attempted unsuccessfully. His first encounter with Superman occurred in the 1940s, where his schemes were frequently foiled by the Man of Steel. This adversarial relationship persisted throughout the Golden Age and well into the Silver Age. A notable mention is the origin from 1963, where Lex Luthor's attempt to create a new lifeform in his laboratory led to a catastrophic incident. However, his hatred for Superman did not purely stem from this event. In this version, he blamed Superboy (who later became Superboy in later versions) for destroying his new creation, which would have caused Luthor to become the world's greatest scientist. This origin lasted until 1985.
A More Complex Portrayal in TV Shows: 'Smallville' and 'Supergirl'
Turning to the TV shows Smallville and Supergirl, Lex Luthor's relationship with Superman evolves into a more multifaceted narrative. In Smallville, Lex Luthor, born Jonathan Bates, has a complex arc. Initially, he saves Clark Kent's life after a car accident, which prompts Clark to take him in as a foster brother. Their initial relationship is based on mutual survival. However, Lex's worldview and business acumen quickly come into conflict with Clark's ethical stance and budding superpowers. This leads to a gradual decline in their relationship, marked by a series of betrayals and resentments. Lex's hatred for Superman escalates after discovering Clark's secret identity. For Lex, this betrayal is a double affront: it undermines his trust in human kindness and places him in direct conflict with a force far beyond his control.
In Supergirl, Lex Luthor is still the father figure, but his approach is more calculated. Initially, Lex likes Kara (Supergirl) because she shares a similar outsider status in a world dominated by Kryptonians. However, Lex's interest in Kara quickly turns to a more sinister plot as he begins to see her as a means to an end – a tool to control other metahumans and enhance his own power. This transformation is rooted in his desire to dominate and control, much like his efforts in the comics. Lex's relationship with Kara is marked by manipulations and schemes that range from subtle psychological games to blatant attempts to use her for his own gain.
The Context of Lex Luthor's Motivations
Understanding Lex Luthor's motivations requires delving into the context in which he operates. His love-hate relationship with Superman is deeply connected to his own identity and power struggles. In the comics, Lex's hatred is often a product of his desire for recognition and his belief in himself as a superior intellect. His schemes, though often failing, are driven by his conviction that he has the wisdom to outmaneuver Superman. In Smallville and Supergirl, his motivations are more personal, grounded in a desire to belong, control, and influence. Lex's complex character arc in these shows reflects a broader narrative of an outsider seeking to fit into a world that often rejects him.
Conclusion
The differing portrayals of Lex Luthor’s relationship with Superman in comics and TV shows like Smallville and Supergirl offer a rich tapestry of character development and narrative complexity. While in comics Lex is primarily a one-dimensional villain, in these shows he evolves into a more multifaceted and relatable character. This evolution not only provides deeper insights into his motivations but also enriches the audience's understanding of the broader universe in which these characters exist.