Superman’s Parents Made a Misguided Decision by Sending Him to Earth

Warning: Spoilers for Absolute Superman #3

Many fans of the DC universe are well-versed in the iconic origins of Superman. As the imminent destruction of Krypton looms, Kal-El’s parents make the heart-wrenching decision to send their infant son to Earth in an escape pod. However, upon reflection, it becomes clear that they may have made an error by allowing Superman to leave Krypton alone, as a different course of action might have proven far more beneficial for both him and his home world.

Reassessing Krypton’s Destruction Strategy

In the latest installment, Absolute Superman #3, crafted by Jason Aaron along with artists Rafa Sandoval, Ulises Arreola, and Becca Carey, we witness a pivotal moment where Superman confronts his parents regarding their drastic decision to send him away during Krypton’s impending collapse. As Kal-El learns of the planet’s fate, he expresses his feelings of betrayal, accusing his parents of abandoning him.

Absolute Superman 3 Kal-El accuses his parents of shooting him into space alone and Lara says they would never send him off by himself

However, Lara, Kal-El’s mother, promptly reassures him, stating, “We’d never shoot you into space by yourself.” This statement serves as a critical commentary on Superman’s traditional origin story, which involved his parents sending him off to Earth alone. The reimagined narrative in the Absolute Universe focuses on a more collective approach to survival.

A Collective Escape from Krypton

A New Strategy for Saving Kryptonians

Absolute Superman 3 Lara reveals she and Jor will join Kal in space as well as every Kryptonian they can fit in their ship

In this redefined Absolute Universe, Jor-El emerges as a diligent figure who begins to see the signs of Krypton’s decline. Understanding the urgency of the situation, both he and Lara create a plan that includes not only their son’s escape but also that of as many Kryptonians as possible. Lara unveils her intention to equip a spacecraft capable of rescuing numerous fellow Kryptonians, asserting that they will utilize every available resource rather than shield only their son.

This significant shift places Superman’s parents in stark contrast to the elitist Science Council of Krypton, who hoard resources and prioritize their own survival. It’s a refreshing narrative that emphasizes the ethics of altruism and community over selfishness.

Examining the Shortcomings of Superman’s Original Origins

The Limited Scope of Traditional Parental Decisions

Comic book art: Superman stands between Jor-El and Lara in front of the Fortress of Solitude.

This reinterpretation has led to a profound reevaluation of Jor and Lara’s decisions in the established DC continuity. While prioritizing Kal-El’s safety is understandable, the choice to send him alone raises questions about their commitment to preserving their heritage. In the absence of Kryptonians, Superman grew up on Earth isolated from his cultural roots.

Additionally, the conventional story highlights an innate selfishness, as his parents do not attempt to save any other Kryptonian during the crisis. In the Absolute Universe, Lara captures this sentiment poignantly by wishing for a larger ship capable of evacuating the entire population. Conversely, the original tale neglects the plight of others in favor of a singular focus on their own child.

Jor-El’s Failed Attempts at Broader Rescue Efforts

Learning from the Past

Notably, Jor-El did entertain the possibility of rescuing his fellow Kryptonians through different means. In a pivotal moment depicted in Action Comics #1074, he aspires to use the Phantom Zone as a refuge for the population. However, his plans falter due to bureaucratic interference from the Science Council, redirecting his efforts solely toward sending Superman to Earth.

This narrative evolution raises anticipated questions about the fate of the new version of Superman’s origin. The Absolute Universe paints a picture of hope, yet there are risks involved, as Lara and Jor’s current plan may meet a fate akin to Jor-El’s original failure. As it stands, Superman appears alienated in the present, leading to a collective concern for both him and his mission.

Ultimately, the future of the House of El and their noble intent to save Kryptonians remains uncertain, but one can only wish that this fresh narrative leads to a positive outcome for all involved, particularly Superman.

Absolute Superman #3 is now available for readers through DC Comics.

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