Superman is one of the single most recognizable figures in the entire world. His image has been reproduced millions upon millions of times and stories about him have been translated into theater, radio, audio books, comics, computer games and a seemingly infinite variety of media. You can find paraphernalia of all kinds, up to and including, Superman underwear.

When speaking of internationally identifiable iconic figures, superman has earned his place within the highest ranks of that category. From the infamous 'S' on his chest, to the colors that it consists of, a multitude of people spanning most nations on the globe know what these symbols represent. In tens of thousands of stores in myriad locations, a truly awe-inspiring number of products, including tons of movie memorabilia all stamped with his image, are bought and sold every day.

Realistically speaking, it would be hard to identify a form of media that his image or story hasn't been featured on, or lent to in some way. Aside from direct imagery, because of his iconic status in pop culture, his character is referenced almost as much, and with as much diversity, as his actual image is displayed.

Of the most commonly debated reasons behind the undying popularity of The Man of Steel, one of the most recurring is in regards to his intransigent morality- his absolute inability to champion any cause but justice.

It was seventy three years ago that the #1 issue of action comics came out and allowed the Man Of Steel to make his first appearance; two artists, Joe Schuster and Jerry Seigel created the character in 1938. And, though a great many things have changed since that time, it would seem self-evident that the archetype of the 'superhero' has retained its' claim on the imagination of the populace. For a comic strip character to stay at the forefront of popular culture for so long, speaks volumes of the eagerness of people to hold on to hopes and dreams and heroes.

Some argue that we see ourselves in characters like that as we'd like to be, or perhaps, as we know we are unable to be. In this world full of grays, the black and white world of the superhero contains a welcome simplicity and the absolute knowledge that one is doing the right thing.

Indeed, if one takes a second to actually peer at the phenomena closely, it could be argued that the enduring popularity of the super hero down to the present day could be a symptom of the impotence and powerlessness that a great many people feel over their inability to impact major happenings in their lives. The idea of a noble, selfless, humble AND extremely powerful being willing to sacrifice for the greater good is one not easily let go of.

Whether you are a hardcore fan, with a room full of posters, wallpaper, a set of sheets and matching Superman underwear, or just a person who remembers seeing or hearing about the Man Of Steel for the first time as a child, it can feel good to know that some ideals, and the embodiment of those ideals, never really fade.