How has the portrayal of comic superheroines evolved over time?

Early superheroines were often damsels in distress or hyper-sexualized figures. The 1970s saw a rise in more independent and empowered characters like Ms. Marvel. The 1990s and 2000s brought greater diversity and complexity, with characters exploring themes of identity, trauma, and social justice. Modern portrayals strive for more nuanced and realistic representations, moving away from simplistic tropes.