8 Things You Didn't Know About DC's Black Manta

8. A Supervillain On The Spectrum

For many years, Black Manta’s back-story was shrouded in mystery within the pages of DC Comics. This ended in 1993, when Aquaman #6 attempted to flesh out the character. Since then, Manta has had at least three different origins, but the most perplexing retelling of Manta’s early life came a decade after his origin was created.

In the 8th issue of the 2003 Aquaman series, it was explained that Black Manta was born autistic. With no advancements in medicine to treat such a disorder, Manta, as a child, is sent to Arkham Asylum and undergoes various forms of experimental treatment, hoping to cure him. He is eventually “cured” of the illness, gaining homicidal tendencies as a result, even murdering the scientist who treated him.

This was a gross misrepresentation of the effects of autism. The insensitive nature in which the disorder is described is shocking, but more offensive is the idea that the disorder can be “cured” at a mental institution, something debunked by medical professionals. Autism Spectrum Disorder is estimated to affect tens of millions of people worldwide. Manta’s backstory could have been the harbinger of a greater understanding, but instead he is demonized for being on the spectrum.