An analysis of X men against Superman and the American Dream

Rating: 8/10 (15 January 2007)

American Dream can be defined as a social idea whereby one can attain a prosperous and material life, through hard work and good ethics. It works upon the basis that there are equal opportunities for all to pursue one's own dream without any restriction. The American Dream becomes an aspiration for many immigrants, whose hopes were torn apart by wars, injustice or inequality in their homeland.
Superman lives like a model immigrant and encompasses most of the traits denoted by the American Dream: white American with a humble background working hard to integrate into the society. His ability to fly is a metaphor of the American Dream such that one can get what he wants and always reaching for greater heights. Superman shows us that it is possible to have all the freedom in the world to pursue one's dream; but only within the boundaries of justice and righteousness. His character is consistent outwardly, as Clarke Kent the journalist; as well as inwardly, through his secret identity of a superhero. He knows and lives out his mission. All of us can contribute to our society through the utilization of our talents and skills in a positive and wholesome manner.
With X-men, we see the social phenomenon of teenagers who grow up in families who believe in the American Dream, as well as those (eg.Magneto) who embark on a journey to settle in the land of the free, only to find that the Dream is as misguided and distorted as it can be. The power that these superheroes possess is a stark reflection of their inner insecurities, fears and hopes. We see a potentially talented bunch of heroes who are unclear of their mission, and constantly fearing the unknown, as opposed to what Superman is. Furthermore, as there are no equal and just methods in handling the issue of mutant discrimination, the mutants' existence comes under a threat that is driven by the fear of the mainstream humans These circumstances do not allow "those who are different" to pursue the American Dream freely.
In my opinion, X-men challenges the American Dream such that not every American will equate a consumer-driven material life as the ultimate goal; there are more important social issues, such as discrimination and social inequality to be address. To limit and standardize how one should live in the American Dream simply neglect those who have a different purpose and calling in lives. As there are no strict definition of truth, justice and the American way, the characters in X-men have learn to redefine and live the American Dream by their own terms. In another way, they learn from Superman how to make judgment about what is right and wrong and eventually do what is 'right' in their own justification.
In conclusion, not everyone needs to adhere to the American brand of 'freedom'. X-men managed to raise the question: If America is as just and free as it seems, then why does one need to work hard to fit into the society; why can't they gain acceptance based on who they are?