The Legacy of Silver Age Superman: After Crisis on Infinite Earths

After the cataclysmic Crisis on Infinite Earths, the world of Superman underwent significant changes, particularly for the iconic character of the Silver Age. This article explores the legacy of Silver Age Superman following the crisis, focusing on his rebirth and the various narrative paths that followed.

John Byrne's Reboot: A New Earth Superman

In response to the sweeping changes brought by Crisis on Infinite Earths, John Byrne provided a reboot of the Superman saga with his 1986 Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow? story arc. This arc, featuring the rebirth of New Earth Superman, marked a significant departure from the previous continuity. Byrne's portrayal of Superman not only reflected the new status quo but also explored the aftermath of the crisis.

One of the key differences was the discontinuation of Superman's direct partnership with Batman. In the final issue of the World's Finest series, their methods diverged, leading to the break in their alliance. Additionally, the integration of Mxy with the Phantom Zone entity Aethur left Metropolis in ruins, illustrating the tenuous nature of the new reality.

A Complicated Timeline: Alan Moore's Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?

Alan Moore's Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?, while canonical for certain Earths, presents a narrative that is both consistent and inconsistent. This story, published in 1993, delves into the post-Crisis timeline and revisits the character of Superman before the crisis, suggesting a timeline where the events occurred in a way that contradicted earlier narratives.

The story features several elements that add to its complexity. The appearance of the Adult Legion of Super-Villains and the Phantom Zone entity Aethur are particularly noteworthy. These elements add an alternate, yet recognizable, future to the 1980s timeline. However, in 2021, DC moved this event to Earth-423, further complicating the continuity.

For many fans, Moore's story is seen as a definitive narrative of the conclusion to the Silver/Bronze Age Superman. It serves as both a love letter to the older stories and a deconstruction of those narratives. Despite the changes brought by the Final Crisis, many see Moore's story as a significant milestone in the evolution of Superman's lore.

The Irrelevance of Silver Age Superman

The impact of Crisis on Infinite Earths went beyond just the reboot of Superman; it also altered the perception and importance of the Silver Age character. Over the years, the various narrative paths have diverged, with continuity often suggesting that multiple timelines exist.

The Zero Hour event in 1994, for example, featured a significant crossover that brought together various Earths. In this event, Superman briefly reunited with his Earth-1 counterpart, who was portrayed as open to the changes. Additionally, the impression of the Miller/Kircheisz Batman was that of an admirer of Superman's practical approach. These elements underscore the changing perception of Superman's legacy.

Another telling point is the relevance of the Silver Age Superman in the context of the Infinite Crisis. During this event, Kal-L (the Silver Age version) rarely compared himself to his Earth-1 counterpart, often referred to as "Kohai," only vaguely referencing him. This indicates that even in the aftermath of the crisis, the Silver Age Superman was becoming increasingly irrelevant to the modern narrative.

As time and space continue to evolve in the DC universe, the Silver Age Superman not only represents the past but also serves as a reminder of a time and place that no longer exists. His legacy is one of a bygone era, acknowledged but no longer a central part of the ongoing narrative.

Conclusion

The Silver Age Superman's legacy post-Crisis is complex and multifaceted. From the reboot by John Byrne to the varying narratives introduced by Alan Moore, the character's importance has diminished. His memory persists as a symbol of an earlier era, a reminder of a time before the Crisis on Infinite Earths reshaped the universe. The Silver Age Superman remains a part of DC's rich history, albeit one that is increasingly relegated to the margins of modern storytelling.