Our less-than-informative countdown is complete, signalling the launch of a new theme week at the Fortress.

It’s seven days of corrupt counterparts, dark doppelgangers and larcenous look-a-likes!

Why evil twins, you ask?

Instead of confessing to any twisted hidden desires - not that we have any, you understand - the Keeper will discuss the topic’s appeal in a more scholarly manner.

For centuries, doppelgangers have served as effective metaphors for the duality of man, the hidden savagery that lies beneath the thin layer of civilization.

The lesson learned from evil twin literature is the greatest enemy is our own self, for that is where the beast dwells.

Plus, you know, it’s kind of cool to see Superman or Wonder Woman beat up on themselves once in a while.

And speaking of super-heroes …

Since Superman debuted in 1938, hundreds - if not thousands - of stories have pitted comic-book heroes and heroines against dark counterparts.

Of course, in that time a few cliches have emerged. To kick off the week properly, our old friend Kara Zor-El will demonstrate what we like to call the Evil-Twin Switcheroo.

This plot device calls for the evil twin to confuse the protagonists by proclaiming he or she is the genuine article.

For a recent example, let’s turn to Supergirl #5:

Of course, years of experience has taught Superman how to best handle such a situation.

That’s right. He beats the snot out of both Supergirls.

This scene goes a long way toward explaining why Kurt Busiek thought it necessary to beef up the Man of Steel’s intelligence.

As you may also guess, Supergirl #5 didn’t resolve much.

Sure, the “Dark Supergirl” was defeated but Kara 2.0 continues to wrestle (figuratively, at this point) with her evil nature whenever DC gets its act together enough to put out another issue.

Despite its faults, however, Supergirl #5 deserves recognition for one historic moment …

The debut of the Bat-Strobe™!

Awesome.