Black Adam's Cannibalism Proves He Can Be DC’s Ultimate Hero
Black Adam fulfills one of DC's most villainous roles, but he displays tenacity and willpower that if used correctly, makes him the ultimate hero.
In the pages of DC Comics, Black Adam is usually portrayed as a dictatorial villain, but in more recent times the character has taken on a role akin to that of an antihero. This is supported by a cannibalistic test of resolve and willpower, one that proves that Teth Adam is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. With a resolve like his, Black Adam can be the ultimate DC hero, outweighing the likes of even Batman or Superman.
Black Adam: The Dark Age by Peter Tomasi, Doug Mahnke, and Christian Alamy is a miniseries that takes place after World War III. The story follows a de-powered Black Adam attempting to bring back his dead wife, Isis, while the heroes and governments of the world hunt him down for the crimes he committed. It's an incredibly dark tale, but it is the darkness that shows how Black Adam can be the topmost hero.
In the second issue of The Dark Age, Adam kills and eats one of his willing followers who is accompanying him on a treacherous and freezing trek through the mountains. He does this to sustain himself so he can survive the journey, but that does nothing to take away from how dark Adam's act is. At the same time, it shows how grateful and unrelenting he is; letting nothing stand in the way of him doing what he feels is right. If that means resorting to cannibalism to survive, Black Adam will do it without hesitation, although he makes it a point to graciously thank the follower for his sacrifice every day.
Of course, this relentless drive to achieve his goals can play a part in Black Adam's villainy, too. His sense of superiority is what has driven him to commit atrocious acts, and leading a large group of devoted followers only fuels that fire. However, if he can be convinced that his view of the world is wrong, and that he should adapt his beliefs and ideologies to include all people, then Black Adam has the makings and tenacity of an extraordinary hero. Even Superman's suggested that Black Adam would be a better hero than him.
Black Adam's biggest problem is his superiority complex; his wants and needs outweigh those of all others. Despite that, he still displays unparalleled commitment, willpower, and leadership. He's recently opened his mind to other ways of thinking, so if he can adopt an all-encompassing worldview, then Black Adam would certainly surpass Superman as DC's ultimate hero.