The Cape is an ideally good person. Generally associated with older protagonists and often invokes elements of the Messianic Archetype. Has now become nigh-synonymous with the "classic" Super Hero. This trope is used to evoke admiration amongst other good guys in certain ways.
Capes don't need to actually wear capes (especially if Edna Mode has anything to say about it), though a distinct outfit and some kind of special ability are part of the archetypal image. The most important feature of these sorts of heroes is that they adhere to a strict moral code and sense of authority; capes can be notoriously inflexible and perceive things in black and white, and even be painfully straightforward and selfless. They often downplay their own heroism and will act heroically even when no one will know. They almost universally subscribe to Thou Shalt Not Kill, and even when they don't, they still regard killing as an absolute last resort against only the most dangerous of foes. Capes usually have secret identities, but make public appearances in costume and actively try to keep a good public image. While they’ll likely be adored by the public and a Friend to All Children with a reassuring sense of charisma, they're also extremely likely to be a Humble Hero, pointing to others as The Real Heroes.
