London exhibit explores themes of childhood trauma in world of comics

London, Apr 1 (EFE).- From Superman to Batman, comic book lore has a fascination with orphans and characters who overcome childhood trauma.

London’s Foundling museum is exploring the topic with its exhibition Superheroes, Orphans and Origins: 126 Years in Comics.

Through a collection of comic strips, posters, graphic novels and more, the exhibition looks at why so many superhero stories begin with a child who has lost their parents.

Superman, the baby who fell to earth in a spaceship; Batman, the boy who witnessed his parents being murdered in a Gotham City alleyway; Spider-Man, whose parents died in plane crash — all of these characters share something in common aside from their DC origins.

But the exhibition looks further than famous comic brands.

“Looking beyond the traditional ‘superhero’ genre the exhibition also includes characters from early newspaper comic strips, Japanese Manga and contemporary graphic novel protagonists.

“Historical newspapers, original artwork and contemporary digital work will be on display, as well as examples of international comics rarely exhibited in the UK.”

The showcase runs until August 28. EFE

prc-jt