Definitely a challenging exercise to write about touchy subject like religion and politics without being A: wimpy about your content, or B: too preachy/biased. No doubt some of your bias may show through, but I try to avoid being snarky and condescending towards the reader. I mean, C’mon.. a lot of these religious figures must appear like superheroes when you look at them out of context!
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Discussion (20) ¬
If anyone thinks you’re being snarky or condescending, it’s only because they dislike having the fact that they’re wrong thrown back in their face.
LOL, wow. “Wrong” is just a TAD… um, snarky and condescending. Which is why I’m thinking you’re joking around. Let’s not “scare the straights”, derelict. *grins*
It’s okay. I’m a very devout Christian, and I find this hilarious. In fact, I may be converting to whoever worships Thor…
That’s EXACTLY what I wanted to hear Nick! I just want to make people laugh, not just those who happen to share the same thoughts, beliefs, theories, etc. that I do. Thanks for the comment!
As you know, or shall I say hopefully know, I am a devout Christian as well and have been since 1993. I really like how you approached this as a study of “the history of religion” and not as them mocking Christian beliefs, you did it very tastefully and made it very funny. Thank you for taking that approach.
On a nerd approach I have to answer Fred’s question: Superman and the Hulk are actually based off of Greek Mythology and can also be reflected out of Christianity as well with a certain approach.
Let’s dissect Superman first: Greek Mythology: Siegel himself stated that mythic heroes such as Hercules and Samson had major influences on the Superman Character.
Christian/Judaistic: It is often speculated since both Siegel and Shuster were of Jewish faith that Superman’s creation was based partly on the story of Moses. His name “Kal-El” resembles Hebrew Words that translate to “voice of God”.
Hulk: Greek Mythology: Comparisons of Hulk to Hercules have been made, with an ordinary man having extraordinary strength.
Christian/Judaistic: In this manner Judaism is brought up by creator Stan Lee who compared Hulk to the Golem of Jewish myth.
OK, now I’ve given y’all my view on the comparison, and I’m sure this really has Fred scratching his head and Zorphbert probably is ready to find his laser and use it on me. 🙂
Wow! As always, Todd’s bringing the informative and fun comments! I used those 2 superheros in particular because of the tie-ins I have read about here and there, to greek mythology. Not that I was as knowledgeable as you are, tho… so thanks for the info! Some connections to the Jewish faith as well, never knew that.
LOVE it! Looks like religion hasn’t changed much, ESPECIALLY with our modern “hero sagas” with Superman, Hulk and Thor. Keep up the great work. 🙂
we vulnerable human beings must just have a subliminal need to worship powerful figures/gods/heroes so we can feel like we’re being taken care of. ;0)
Really well done, Dawn.
Thanks Jeff!
I think you did it perfectly. I didn’t get any sense of condescension. Nice work!
great to hear, that was my goal!
Well done in walking that fine line on religion. I have a difficult time doing that with politics, because I was a Democratic committeeman for five years, and I’m a rabid liberal. I know I lost some conservative readers on my strip by not being balanced.
It’s hard to try to write with an unbiased outlook, when we’re all biased anyway. I feel like I should have taken debate back in HS … or at least drama… as you often have to act instead of speak your mind. That is, if you want to appeal to both sides. For me, it’s important if I want to grow a diverse readership.
For those who don’t know already (and hopefully it will not turn people off of Z&F) but I am very liberal myself. I usually test dead-center when it comes to democrat or republican (at least, the old-school definitions), but I sure ain’t conservative. But mainly, I just want everyone to get along with everyone else and be more accepting of what we don’t understand off bat. Golden Rule, people!
*steps off soapbox*
If you guys liked this one (as many of you did!), check out this oldie-but-goodie from 2007! https://zfcomics.com/comics/when-not-to-ask-questions/
Another one that put a smile on my face. Love it.
wee!
Dawn, SUPER respect for tackling a sensitive issue like this! Funny punchline I’ve said myself. You have no fear!
I’d love to comment on how you tactfully extracted humour from a delicate subject, but instead I’m just gonna say that I love Zorphie’s glasses! 🙂