Pulptober 2023 Themes Elaborated, Part One
A reminder that everyday of Pulptober has two prompts; a specific character, and a theme that that character is an example of. This is the first in a series of posts elaborating on what the themes are, and giving 2-3 alternate examples; I will try not to use multiple alts for different days, but may periodically use someone who has their own day.
Thanks to @maxwell-grant who once again helped me with assembling the lists of alternate examples. Characters who have a plus sign (+) next to their names were suggested by him. Characters with an asterisk (*) are ones where I have not consumed any source material (note that I'm including tie-in or revival media as source material).
1-The Shadow/Master of the Mind: This one is fairly straightforward; a LOT of Pulp Heroes have some form of psychic or mesmeric powers. This day is for them. Alternates: Brain Boy, Fascinax*+
2-Doc Savage/Famous Name: While many Pulp Heroes have aliases, many will just use their real name which, with frequency, comes with a surname (or occasionally a given name) that is an actual word or the name of notable historical or mythological figure, that suggests some form of badassery. unsurprisingly, a lot of them are expies of today's primary but far from all...Alternates: Professor Challenger+, Jon Valor*, Athena Voltaire
3-The Green Hornet/A Rainbow of Justice: Another name based one; like their superhero descendants, a significant number of Pulp Heroes use aliases that prominently feature a color. This day is for them. Alternates: Lavender Jack+*, Blue Demon, Red Sonja
4-The Avenger/With A Little Help From My Friends. Most Pulp Heroes have a supporting cast of some sort, but these guys take it a few steps further, working with a team of loyal, capable assistants, with whom they frequently share the spotlight. Alternates: Adventureman, Lobster Johnson
5-John Carter/All For Love: These heroes may or may not have higher motives, but what really pushes them forward is that someone they love is in danger, they intend to save them, and no one and nothing will stand in their way. Alternates: Flash Gordon+, Rick O'Connell
