Superheroes have always been a large part of entertainment. Through comics, shows, and video games, superheroes have always been a sign of hope in dark times. These forms of entertainment have many fans wondering one big question: Would superhero masks actually protect the identity of the vigilante?
- Batman 7/10
Batman’s cowl is sleek and black. It covers the top of his face, leaving the mouth and the bottom of his face uncovered. This allows for better ventilation and conditions. Batman’s cowl would protect Bruce Wayne’s identity pretty well. I believe that Batman’s identity could be easily uncovered, given his status and wealth, which would likely reveal his nightly extracurricular activities.
- Robin 2/10
The mask worn by Batman’s sidekick, Robin, is small, only covering the eyes and sometimes the eyebrows. This type of mask, known as a domino mask, is a common type of masquerade mask. It is known to barely conceal the identity of the wearer. Robin, who is usually 11-19, could have pretty distinctive features, making it easier for others to uncover Robin’s identity. When I asked Evy Schwarm what she thought about Robin’s mask, she said, “No, I do not believe that Robin’s mask is good for hiding his identity because it covers just his eyes and his other prominent features are easy to see”.
- Superman 8/10
Although Superman does not have a physical mask, in his time as a civilian, he wears glasses. In some iterations of Superman, the glasses that he wears in his free time are hypno-glasses that change the observer’s perception of Clark Kent, Superman’s civilian identity. Researchers at the University of York put this disguise to the test. After asking participants in an experiment to identify what people were the same in photos, some wearing glasses, some not. The results showed that if in one photo the person wore glasses and in the other the same person didn’t, then participants could only correctly guess at a low 74%. When the researchers tried the same experiment but with the people in the photos not wearing glasses in the second photo, participants could correctly guess 80% of the time. So, if a low-time reporter wore glasses and acted differently than Superman, it could be difficult to draw parallels between the two. Superman’s identity would be pretty well hidden, especially in such a large city; though, there is still a high chance that people who are around Clark Kent quite a bit could start seeing the resemblance between Superman and Clark Kent.
- Spiderman 9/10
Spiderman’s mask covers his full face and hair, which perfectly conceals his identity. It is lightweight and flexible, meaning that Peter Parker/Spiderman wouldn’t need to take it off often due to comfort or sight issues. The eyes on the Spiderman mask are large and not see-through, allowing for a vast amount of perception range while still hiding the identity of Peter Parker. Though a few problems arise, such as ventilation and accessibility. Since the mask does not keep the nose and mouth uncovered, breathing could be more difficult, as well as eating and drinking. These problems could cause Peter Parker to remove the mask more than he should, which could leave him vulnerable to his identity being unveiled.
Overall, most superhero masks have both good and bad properties. Many masks could be easily removed (in good or bad circumstances) or become uncomfortable after wearing them for a long time. Though these vigilantes choose to help others out of kindness and hope, they would most likely have to put up with these issues. These masks have been symbols for hope and kindness, though some are not realistic.
