What Makes Sunfire A Symbol For Post-WW2 Japan?

Japan features some of the most distinctive superheroes in the world, particularly in the Marvel Universe. The most famous is Sunfire, a mutant who stirs the same national pride as Captain America does in the USA. Shiro Yoshida has been a part of the X-Men, Avengers and Big Hero 6, highlighting his prominence. The character’s backstory has turned him into a symbol for post-WW2 Japan and I’m looking into Sunfire’s history to see what makes him so important.

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The History Of Big Hero 6 And Their Quest To Protect Japan

Superhero teams can be found all over the world, especially in the Marvel Universe. America is known for The Avengers, England has Excalibur and Canada has Alpha Flight. With its technological prowess and booming economy, you’d think Japan would have a superhero team, and you’d be right. Japan’s Big Hero 6 protects the nation from outside and inside threats. The team was featured prominently in a 2014 film of the same name, though Big Hero 6 got its start in Marvel.

The original comic team was made up of Silver Samurai, Sunfire, Hiro Takachiho, Honey Lemon, Baymax and Go-Go Tomago. I’m looking into the history of the group to see how it was formed and what brought each member onto the team.

How Does Silver Samurai Break The Mould For Traditional Japanese Imagery?

Samurai are traditionally depicted as brave warriors who value honour and duty. They were known to serve their masters loyally, to lay down their lives and sacrifice everything in the pursuit of Bushido. Marvel has done a great job of emphasising Japanese culture, with the Silver Samurai representing a traditional image. The identity has been used by two characters, though it has been linked with dishonour, due to Kenuichio Harada starting off as a villain. Over time, Harada looked to regain his honour and The Comic Vault is looking into the history of the Silver Samurai to see how the identity contrasts with conventional Japanese imagery.