Superman Symbolism: What 10 Most Famous Villains Really Mean

2. Darkseid - His Superior In Almost Every Way

Darkseid is generally presented as everything Superman is and more. Aside from the fact that he lacks both Superman's travel speed and flight, Darkseid is better than Superman in every way. He is stronger, more durable, has more esoteric powers (and more dangerous versions of Superman's esoteric powers, such as the fact that his Omega beams are far more powerful than Superman's heat vision) more intelligent, leads a larger group of beings and has far more conviction than the Man of Steel. He is a threat to Superman on every level, as he can beat the hero down physically and plot highly advanced schemes to cause him trouble mentally. He also boasts an army that can combat Superman without him even having to lift a finger. Darkseid, as the ruler of Apokolips, is also representative of what Superman could be on Earth if he so wished himself to be, as the people of Earth would generally be helpless against his rule if he ever became power-hungry and evil.