Editing Lex Luthor (section)

== Relationship with Superman ==
[[Superman|Superman (Clark Kent/Kal-El)]] and Lex Luthor often start on opposite ends of the spectrum. Superman represents hope, altruism, and power used for the common good, while Lex embodies ambition, selfishness, and human intellect taken to the extreme. In many versions, Lex sees Superman as a threat to human supremacy or a personal obstacle to his absolute control, while Superman perceives Lex as a wasted genius who could benefit the world if he abandoned his destructive obsession and unbridled thirst for power.

In classic comics, their rivalry is rooted in [[Metropolis]], where Lex, a billionaire magnate and brilliant scientist, clashes with Superman, the hero who protects the city. However, in more modern adaptations, such as ''[[Smallville]]'', their relationship takes an emotional turn: it begins as a friendship that deteriorates, adding layers of tragedy to their conflict.

The central themes of their relationship include:

* Power vs. Intellect: Superman possesses superhuman physical strength, while Lex relies on his brilliant mind. Lex often boasts that his intellect makes him superior, even against a "god" like Superman.
* Envy and Obsession: Lex envies the power and admiration Superman receives, fueling his desire to surpass or destroy him.
* Humanity vs. Idealism: Lex represents the darker potential of humanity (unchecked ambition and selfishness), while Superman embodies its best version (hope and self-sacrifice).

Over the decades, Superman and Lex Luthor have evolved from simply being hero and villain to symbols of a philosophical struggle. Lex sees Superman as an intruder who weakens humanity by making it dependent on him, while Superman sees in Lex a reminder of what happens when genius is corrupted by ego and hubris. Their relationship is an endless cycle of challenge and resistance, where neither can completely destroy the other, reflecting their narrative interdependence.