An X-Ray into the Ecto-Prosthetic Superbody

Abstract

This chapter discusses the different varieties of the ecto-prosthetic somatotype, which features the encrustation of the skin, or sometimes the internals, of the superhero’s alter ego, so that an exoskeleton, a new integument, or some other coating starts to form over them. This “second skin” enables the superhero to more easily overcome some of the dangers, constraints, or obstructions of the diegesis. The chapter first calls attention to the ecto-prosthetic superpowers of Wolverine, and then moves into close examinations of those films and Netflix series focusing on the Hulk, Iron Man, Ant-Man, Jessica Jones, and Luke Cage.