What is the true definition of Wonder Woman

[babybro]

As a complex character, we have seen different interpretations of Wonder Woman is about. Quite a few see Wonder Woman as a peace loving, compassionate woman who only throws blows when there is no alternative. Others see Wonder Woman as a take no prisoner battler whose out to spread peace and equality throughout the world with her fist (ala, the WW DVD.)

As a comic book fan, I originally dearly enjoyed WW, but that was before I started getting into her. Meaning, actually spending money to purchase her books and not just read her in team books. After giving her a few reads, I realize WW isn't the superheroine for me. But as a writer, it's important for me to grasp her, even if I do not personally like the character.

So my question to you is, IS there a true definition of Wonder Woman. To say this is squarely what she's about? And if so, what is it?

[brettc1]

There Diana stood, tall and proud on legs braced wide, and watched doom rushing at her. Another would have flinched and died. But the daughter of Hippolyta was resolute, the pride of her Queen mother and the glory of her people. She was ready now, to win or die.

And looming above her, upheld by nothing but the might of her white arms and slender fingered hands, the whole forward turret of the Wisconsin rose forty feet into the air. Behind her gaped the great hole in the ship from which she had lifted the massive gun emplacement, thrice the size of the largest battle tank. Its three barrels were scrap and its crew long gone, but Diana required neither. All she needed, she had – strength and a keen eye, and unfailing courage.

:wink:

[Constantine Drakon]

"Wonder Woman" is the first official single from the Trey Songz album Trey Day. The song was written by Trey Songz along with Danja, who also produced the single. "Wonder Woman" was released in early 2007. The video debuted on BET's Access Granted on April 4, 2007. It was directed by Little X. Canadian actor and rapper Drake makes a cameo in the video.

A remix was made with female Dipset member Jha Jha and rapper Big Kuntry King.

[MinaRho1]

As a complex character, we have seen different interpretations of Wonder Woman is about. Quite a few see Wonder Woman as a peace loving, compassionate woman who only throws blows when there is no alternative. Others see Wonder Woman as a take no prisoner battler whose out to spread peace and equality throughout the world with her fist (ala, the WW DVD.)
It annoys me that people see this as a conflict. She's a believer in peace, not a buddist pacifist. Its the same as being a cop (albeit on an epic scale). They keep the peace, but use force when pressed.


As a comic book fan, I originally dearly enjoyed WW, but that was before I started getting into her. Meaning, actually spending money to purchase her books and not just read her in team books. After giving her a few reads, I realize WW isn't the superheroine for me. But as a writer, it's important for me to grasp her, even if I do not personally like the character.

So my question to you is, IS there a true definition of Wonder Woman. To say this is squarely what she's about? And if so, what is it?
To be honest I'm not sure what your basis for this is. Writers come and go. Some only last a few issues. They all have varying styles and takes on the character so of course you wouldn't like her if your only in-depth reading of her was one specific run.

As for me the true spirit of Wonder Woman is hopeful, compassionate. Her sense of humor is so dry that you wouldn't necessarily detect it. She's happy, she holds family dear-- and being her friend is as good as family.

That's the big stuff for me. The rest is all details to fill in the blanks.

[americanwonder]

a) Honestly, I don't know that any fictional character has a "true definition." Sure, some are written more consistantly, but they're all open for interpretation, imo (eg., Adam West v. Christian Bale, Miller v. Morrison).

b) The best way to "get" a character (imo) is to read said character. Have you read the Perez trades, Rucka's run, Hiketeia, JLA: A League of One, or the current series? I don't think anyone can really "get" a character without reading up.

c) I really like Mina's definition above - Diana is extremely loyal, to her ideals and to those she loves. Here's some comments by Mr. Busiek that add to that:

"Non-violence is the goal, in that she wants a world that's peaceful, but until the world is like that, she's willing to knock heads together as much as they need knocking. She's an Amazon, not Ghandi."

"So that's what I think Wonder Woman's an ambassador for -- the idea that everyone can develop their inner strengths and become someone capable of excelling, of being their best, strong and capable. So there's peace because everyone's strong enough to defend themselves, like the Amazons are. Peace through strength, not peace through shying away from violence, not when it's needed."

From his "5 Questions" interview here"
http://forums.comicbookresources.com/showthread.php?t=285442

[babybro]

It annoys me that people see this as a conflict. She's a believer in peace, not a buddist pacifist. Its the same as being a cop (albeit on an epic scale). They keep the peace, but use force when pressed.

Well as for me personally, I do believe you can be partially both, but not an extreme on both side. For example, many state the DVD was more Xena than WW because of how quick to violence she was. No peace talking, no attempts to reason (something that cops must do such as call out towards the attacker to stand down before shots can be fired {aka Escalation of Force}) just straight fix to cuffs. So of course, I can see how it can be confusing. Superman of course comes to blows with plenty of villians, but his personality, his shtick, still shines through.



To be honest I'm not sure what your basis for this is. Writers come and go. Some only last a few issues. They all have varying styles and takes on the character so of course you wouldn't like her if your only in-depth reading of her was one specific run.

Actually two, and that's incorrect. An excellent example of this is Supergirl. Before, I didn't really care for Supergirl. Like Wonder Woman, I would only read about her when she was features in team books. But my friend recommended I give her a try, and I started with the arc where she rescued this boy from a building later to find out he had cancer. For me, this one of the most powerful arc's I've read from any book. The connection establish was relatively deep, and a bond between an older teen or lady and young boy is rarely seen in comic. I was hooked and have been an avid supporter ever since. (Hence the Icon.) So yes, it is possible for me to like someone after one run, and I gave wonder woman two runs before I realize she wasn't for me. But anyway, this isn't about me, it's about the true definition of WW.


As for me the true spirit of Wonder Woman is hopeful, compassionate. Her sense of humor is so dry that you wouldn't necessarily detect it. She's happy, she holds family dear-- and being her friend is as good as family.

That's the big stuff for me. The rest is all details to fill in the blanks.

Thanks.

[Deus ex Chris]

I think Wonder Woman at her core is a message of self-empowerment, which is why her "god-given" gifts need to somehow be restored to gifts she works for through training and "Amazon concentration" or whatever. She's also a message of peace and acceptance. She's all about ideas and politics and inspiration, and I think her stories should reflect that. Wonder Woman has no real place in a story whose only purpose is popcorn entertainment. She belongs in works that speak to people, thematically and conceptually. She was created to represent specifc ideas and ideals, and I truly think that's where her strength as a concept lies--moreso than just about any other superhero, including Batman and Superman.

[Black Atom]

It annoys me that people see this as a conflict. She's a believer in peace, not a buddist pacifist. Its the same as being a cop (albeit on an epic scale). They keep the peace, but use force when pressed.

The same can be said generically for any superhero. Superman's the nicest, most peaceful guy in the world, but he still knocks out bad guys. Is he any less dedicated to peace than Diana? (we do know he's, apparently, less violent).

I think the real conflict, in people's minds, comes from trying to reconcile two very diverging takes on the character. There's the Wonder Woman non-comic fans know best, which was shaped largely by the Lynda Carter show and then there's the current comics incarnation.

The TV Wonder Woman was sweet, caring and compassionate. She was a different breed of superhero that embodied all of the qualities we tend to associate with women (as Marston intended) and could still kick butt to boot. Wonder Woman's sensitivity didn't come at the expense of her seeming like a strong and formidable hero.

Things today are a different story. Wonder Woman no longer comes from a paradise island with women in diaphenous gowns swimming, riding horses and playing sports. The Amazons are now a completely martial society (Madness? This...is...THEMYSCIRA!). Sure, she's still caring and compassionate, but not noticeably more so than most other heroes. Previously it was those qualities that made her exceptional, where now it's her skill as a warrior that's meant to make her stand out. Don't make her get her axe or sword or eagle armor out on your ass. All that stuff's relatively new. Could you imagine Lynda Carter carrying an axe?

For good or ill, there are two very diverging takes on Wonder Woman out there.

[MinaRho1]

[QUOTE=Black Atom;9603791
For good or ill, there are two very diverging takes on Wonder Woman out there.[/QUOTE]

Just two? I think that's the most punishing thing about being a Wonder Woman fan.

[MinaRho1]

Well as for me personally, I do believe you can be partially both, but not an extreme on both side. For example, many state the DVD was more Xena than WW because of how quick to violence she was. No peace talking, no attempts to reason (something that cops must do such as call out towards the attacker to stand down before shots can be fired {aka Escalation of Force}) just straight fix to cuffs. So of course, I can see how it can be confusing. Superman of course comes to blows with plenty of villians, but his personality, his shtick, still shines through.




Actually two, and that's incorrect. An excellent example of this is Supergirl. Before, I didn't really care for Supergirl. Like Wonder Woman, I would only read about her when she was features in team books. But my friend recommended I give her a try, and I started with the arc where she rescued this boy from a building later to find out he had cancer. For me, this one of the most powerful arc's I've read from any book. The connection establish was relatively deep, and a bond between an older teen or lady and young boy is rarely seen in comic. I was hooked and have been an avid supporter ever since. (Hence the Icon.) So yes, it is possible for me to like someone after one run, and I gave wonder woman two runs before I realize she wasn't for me. But anyway, this isn't about me, it's about the true definition of WW.

Thanks.

For anyone who has difficulty with the character, I found that this archive of some stellar moments in many different Wonder Woman runs is immensely helpful.

Honestly there have been a few dark times where I almost ALMOST decided to give up on the character. Blasphemy, I know! But this thoughtful compilation gave me perspective and was encouraging to read. Take that, Amazons Attack!
When Wondy Was Awesome:
http://bluefall.insanejournal.com/13190.html#cutid1
Not meant to sway anyone into liking the character. Its just an archive of some moments and different aspects of Diana as a fresh and fleshed out character.

[babybro]

The same can be said generically for any superhero. Superman's the nicest, most peaceful guy in the world, but he still knocks out bad guys. Is he any less dedicated to peace than Diana? (we do know he's, apparently, less violent).

I think the real conflict, in people's minds, comes from trying to reconcile two very diverging takes on the character. There's the Wonder Woman non-comic fans know best, which was shaped largely by the Lynda Carter show and then there's the current comics incarnation.

The TV Wonder Woman was sweet, caring and compassionate. She was a different breed of superhero that embodied all of the qualities we tend to associate with women (as Marston intended) and could still kick butt to boot. Wonder Woman's sensitivity didn't come at the expense of her seeming like a strong and formidable hero.

Things today are a different story. Wonder Woman no longer comes from a paradise island with women in diaphenous gowns swimming, riding horses and playing sports. The Amazons are now a completely martial society (Madness? This...is...THEMYSCIRA!). Sure, she's still caring and compassionate, but not noticeably more so than most other heroes. Previously it was those qualities that made her exceptional, where now it's her skill as a warrior that's meant to make her stand out. Don't make her get her axe or sword or eagle armor out on your ass. All that stuff's relatively new. Could you imagine Lynda Carter carrying an axe?

For good or ill, there are two very diverging takes on Wonder Woman out there.

You have summed up the words absolutely perfectly. I RARELY give this out as it's very rarely I agree wholeheartedly with someone, but for you, you deserve the credited QFT!


For anyone who has difficulty with the character, I found that this archive of some stellar moments in many different Wonder Woman runs is immensely helpful.

Honestly there have been a few dark times where I almost ALMOST decided to give up on the character. Blasphemy, I know! But this thoughtful compilation gave me perspective and was encouraging to read. Take that, Amazons Attack!
When Wondy Was Awesome:
http://bluefall.insanejournal.com/13190.html#cutid1
Not meant to sway anyone into liking the character. Its just an archive of some moments and different aspects of Diana as a fresh and fleshed out character.

Hahaha, it's funny, one of the two arcs I read was amazon attack. Reason being as I'm a HUGE terry dodson fan, so I was trying to pick up every issue that had terry dodson in it. Just so happen that amazon attack tie in was part of it lol.

In any case, thanks for providing me the information. The main point for me from this thread is to try and grasp what wonder woman is about to the eyes of the fan, for if my dream comes true and I do happen to create a cross over between my characters and the JLA, I want to be able to write WW accurately, as the more I seem to research her, the more complex she comes. (Mainly because there is so many takes on WW.)

[raporfest]

To me personally she would rather spread her message of equality, love, and peace rather then go out an punch bad guys to oblivion. Making her into the "man hating trigger happy liberated warrior woman" like she wa in the animated film just makes her no different then the most of other female superheroes that are out there who either portrayed as being bad asses or bimbo sex kittens. Wonder Woman like Superman is the superhero everyone especially the female superheroes look up and strive to be. Her compassion and love is what makes her stand out. It feels as though many writers and fans seem to focus too much on " SHE'S A WARRIOR!!! **** YEAH!!! GOTTA SNAP A ************'S NECK NOW!!!!!!"

Yes, Diana is a warrior but not a barbarian. Being a warrior doesn't mean who have to kill enemies, being a warrior means you are able to defend yourself and be willing as well as capable of going toe to toe with an enemy if needed. Look I love seeing Diana battle against with demons, gorgons, harpies, and other monsters (no Greg that doesn't include Maxwell Lord) I mean come who doesn't. However she sees the potential for good in all things that have a soul, fighting with her fists is a last resort, and to her human life is something too precious to simply take away. She knows when yet lose and when not to. When fighting hordes of demons or a being like Darkseid or Neron, she can completely let lose. However with someone who is (meta)human and has a soul and consciousness, though she will defend herself (if they attack) and possibly retaliate. She won't full on punch them to the moon and she will try to talk them out of it.

[MinaRho1]

You have summed up the words absolutely perfectly. I RARELY give this out as it's very rarely I agree wholeheartedly with someone, but for you, you deserve the credited QFT!



Hahaha, it's funny, one of the two arcs I read was amazon attack. Reason being as I'm a HUGE terry dodson fan, so I was trying to pick up every issue that had terry dodson in it. Just so happen that amazon attack tie in was part of it lol.

In any case, thanks for providing me the information. The main point for me from this thread is to try and grasp what wonder woman is about to the eyes of the fan, for if my dream comes true and I do happen to create a cross over between my characters and the JLA, I want to be able to write WW accurately, as the more I seem to research her, the more complex she comes. (Mainly because there is so many takes on WW.)

Ah. You read Amazons Attack. That explains a lot. I love Terry Dodson's art like nobody's business, but I don't base my opinions of character arcs by who is pencilling.
Oy. Friggin' Amazons Attack of all things. My heart goes out to you. (And Terry deserved better, but I guess a paycheck is a paycheck) Wasn't the penciller for Amazons Attack a different guy tho? I don't recall his name, but the same guy who did some 52 stuff or that Countdown guy?