What Is The Best Wonder Woman Comic?

Wonder Woman: Gods and Mortals – A Timeless Classic

Wonder Woman stands tall as one of DC Comics’ most enduring symbols, embodying female empowerment, compassion, and unwavering strength. Across eight decades, she has been the centerpiece of numerous comic book narratives, ranging from iconic to lesser-known. Among these, George Pérez’s 1987 “Gods and Mortals” saga shines as a definitive Wonder Woman tale, renowned for its captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals, reshaping Diana and her universe with depth and creativity.

Before “Gods and Mortals”

Wonder Woman’s inception was deeply rooted in the zeitgeist of her era. Her origins frequently mirrored the WWII-era notions of female empowerment, portraying the Amazonians as predominantly benevolent and secluded beings. The interaction with Greek deities was portrayed with reverence, albeit sometimes oversimplified. Steve Trevor, as the outsider who stumbled upon Themyscira, played a pivotal role in Diana’s departure from her homeland. This often cast her in a reactive position, as she embarked on a journey of discovery and adaptation in the unfamiliar realm of “Man’s World.”

“Gods and Mortals” Changes

Pérez unveils a more intricate narrative of the Amazons, depicting them as the reincarnated spirits of women who suffered injustices at the hands of men. Their idyllic paradise was earned through relentless struggle and unwavering vigilance, imbuing them with a fiercer demeanor and positioning them as active participants in shaping world affairs.

The portrayal of the Greek gods transcends mere benevolence; they are depicted as capricious beings, their favor swaying unpredictably. Among them, figures like Ares embody active malevolence, challenging their perceived wisdom and compelling Diana to uphold her own moral compass. Diana’s journey extends beyond mere reaction to external stimuli; she responds to a divine summons, undertaking a mission she fervently believes in. Yet, amid her conviction, she grapples with doubt regarding the path laid out for her by higher powers.

The New Diana: A Warrior and a Diplomat

These alterations form the central conflict driving “Gods and Mortals.” Diana finds herself at odds as her ideals of peace and compassion, instilled by her Themysciran upbringing, clash with the harsh realities and potential violence of the patriarchal society. Caught between her allegiance to the gods, her affection for the Amazons, and her growing belief in humanity’s capacity for greatness, she grapples with inner turmoil.

In this rendition, Wonder Woman isn’t merely adapting to a foreign environment; she’s wrestling with the very essence of her identity when the pillars of her beliefs are shaken. “Gods and Mortals” transcends a mere retelling of her origin; it becomes the narrative of Diana forging her own path, confronting her internal conflicts and making defining choices. It’s these struggles and dilemmas that infuse the storyline with captivating tension and profound emotional depth, elevating it to an iconic status.

Ares: Not Just a Warmonger

In past depictions, Ares was often depicted as a straightforward representation of war, reveling in violence for its own sake. However, this reinterpretation offers a more nuanced portrayal. Ares now embodies a sinister ideology, viewing conflict as inherent to human nature and essential for advancement. His influence is rooted in perpetuating toxic masculinity and upholding systems of oppression and warfare.

Confronting this version of Ares transcends mere physical battles to stop a god’s destruction of cities. It becomes a profound ideological struggle for Wonder Woman. She confronts entrenched systems of power and challenges the pervasive belief that violence is the sole solution to societal problems.

Beyond Supervillain Tropes: Cheetah & Circe

In comic books, female villains frequently adhere to stereotypes like the envious seductress or the ambitious sorceress. However, Pérez’s reinterpretation breathes new life into characters like Barbara Ann Minerva (Cheetah), portraying her as a figure corrupted by an insatiable hunger for power, mirroring Diana’s own vulnerability to darkness.

This transformation imbues her character with a sense of tragedy and complexity, making her a more compelling adversary. Similarly, Circe transcends her previous portrayal as a mere sorceress seeking dominion. Instead, she embodies the threat of age-old biases against women, acting as a force both internal and external, seeking to undermine Diana. In Pérez’s vision, Circe becomes a symbol of the ongoing struggle against entrenched prejudices and societal barriers faced by women.

Thematic Battles

By imbuing villains with deeper motivations, their clashes with Wonder Woman transcend mere displays of power. Diana’s confrontation with Ares symbolizes a broader struggle against the societal structures that perpetuate conflict and oppression, advocating for a world founded on empathy and mutual understanding. Cheetah’s descent into darkness parallels Diana’s own internal battle to preserve her humanity amidst the chaos of violence.

This narrative becomes a testament to the ongoing fight against darkness and the importance of remaining steadfast in one’s principles. Circe embodies the oppressive forces that seek to stifle female empowerment and autonomy. Diana’s triumphs represent progress and a step towards greater equality. The thematic richness of “Gods and Mortals” elevates Wonder Woman’s adversaries beyond mere antagonists, transforming them into symbols of real-world challenges. Consequently, her victories resonate more deeply, reflecting the enduring struggle for justice and empowerment.

The Art of Mythmaking

Pérez’s meticulous linework serves a purpose beyond mere adornment; it bestows each character with a distinct texture. Wonder Woman’s graceful lines stand in stark contrast to the rigid angles of Ares. The ancient Greek backdrop feels palpable, with weathered columns and the ebb and flow of battle adding to its authenticity. Each page is a testament to masterful composition. In Pérez’s hands, fight sequences burst with kinetic energy, thanks to dynamic panel shapes, while quieter interludes unfold with a sense of grace. His strategic use of panel sizes and placement subtly guides the reader’s gaze, enhancing the narrative’s flow and immersion.

Mythological Grandeur and Human Emotion

When the narrative calls for it, Pérez unveils breathtaking visuals that leave a lasting impact. The gods loom large over mere mortals, mythical creatures spring to life with terrifying realism, and the battlegrounds ignite with explosive intensity. This visual spectacle befits the grandeur of the epic tale being told.

In Pérez’s hands, Diana’s trials are not solely conveyed through words; he deftly captures her inner struggles through subtle expressions and nuanced body language. It’s in these small gestures and interactions between characters where profound relationships are forged and explored. This delicate balance between the intimate and the grand is integral to portraying a multifaceted character like Wonder Woman.

The Art IS the Experience

“Gods and Mortals” transcends mere storytelling; it beckons you into a richly immersive world crafted by Pérez’s artistic mastery. Here’s how his visuals enhance key elements. You’re not merely observing panels; you’re stepping into the heart of myth. Themyscira blooms with lushness, Olympus looms with majestic intimidation, and the “Man’s World” feels both alien and familiar. Pérez threads visual cues throughout, juxtaposing Themyscira’s harmony with the starkness of the outside world, reinforcing the narrative’s thematic depth.

Through Pérez’s brush, you don’t just witness Diana’s strength, Ares’ cruelty, or the compassion etched on every Amazon’s face; you feel these emotions resonate within you. “Gods and Mortals” achieves masterpiece status because its visuals aren’t mere illustrations; they’re integral storytellers. Pérez emerges as a master world-builder, with his art serving as a cornerstone for the profound resonance of this Wonder Woman saga.

The Lasting Impact on Wonder Woman

Pérez’s exploration of the intricacies within the Greek pantheon and the Amazons’ intricate history profoundly reshaped Wonder Woman’s character. Subsequent writers have embraced these nuanced elements, eschewing simpler portrayals of the past. In modern Wonder Woman narratives, Diana grapples with her identity amidst the realms she inhabits. She is not blindly optimistic but a multifaceted warrior who actively questions and molds her role.

The groundwork for this evolution was laid in “Gods and Mortals.” Through the portrayals of characters like Ares, Cheetah, and Circe, the narrative transcends mere physical confrontations, delving into the ongoing struggle against detrimental ideologies and entrenched systems of power. This shift reinforces that Wonder Woman’s battles extend beyond sheer physical prowess, resonating with contemporary themes of societal and ideological conflict.

Why “Gods and Mortals” Resonates Today

Despite being penned decades ago, Diana’s ongoing battle to reconcile compassion with strength in a world that frequently diminishes both resonates deeply with women grappling with contemporary hurdles. Themes of power’s corruptive nature, leveraging strength for societal betterment, and confronting oppressive structures remain poignantly pertinent.

Diana’s reluctance to accept simplistic solutions underscores her commitment to shaping the world’s future beyond mere triumph in battle. This enduring struggle strikes a chord in our current era of profound social and political transformation, mirroring the complexities and uncertainties faced by individuals navigating turbulent times.

The Timeless Power of Comics

“Gods and Mortals” exemplifies the pinnacle of superhero comics by showcasing their ability to transcend mere retelling of old tales and instead use them as lenses to explore contemporary issues. This enduring relevance is why classic myths continue to find resonance within the pages of comics. The portrayal of flawed and introspective characters proves far more compelling than simplistic paragons, with Diana’s internal struggles enhancing the potency of her heroism.

While comics inherently blend words and art, “Gods and Mortals” demonstrates how visuals can convey emotional depth and profound ideas as effectively as dialogue. This dual power of narrative and imagery elevates “Gods and Mortals” beyond being just a remarkable Wonder Woman story; it serves as a testament to the capacity of comic books, at their zenith, to transcend their genre boundaries and craft tales that resonate across generations.

Finding “Gods and Mortals” – Accessibility for All

This beloved classic isn’t an elusive relic; it’s easily accessible through multiple collections, inviting new readers to immerse themselves in its timeless narrative. Available in various formats, including traditional trade paperbacks for those who savor physical books, digital versions for e-readers, and potentially deluxe hardcover editions for collectors, there’s an option to suit every preference.

What’s more, the experience is incredibly user-friendly. Comic shops warmly welcome newcomers, while online retailers offer effortless searching for the specific collection you desire. Whether you prefer flipping through pages or swiping on a screen, “Gods and Mortals” awaits, ready to captivate audiences old and new alike.

Beyond “Gods and Mortals” – A World of Exploration Awaits

Position “Gods and Mortals” as an incredible introduction to Wonder Woman, but playfully hint at the vastness of her history. Suggest that now, armed with the themes enjoyed in “Gods and Mortals,” readers can ask knowledgeable comic shop staff or search online for other stories that focus on. If they loved the epic clashes with the gods, suggest other Wonder Woman runs with a similar feel. For readers intrigued by morally gray antagonists, point them towards stories featuring compelling rogues. If they were drawn to Wonder Woman’s fight for equality, highlight other narratives tackling similar issues.

Call to Action

End the section with an enthusiastic encouragement. “Whether you’re a seasoned Wonder Woman fan, or completely new to comics, “Gods and Mortals” is an experience not to be missed. Let it be your first step into an amazing world of stories where compassion and strength go hand in hand.”

How Many Wonder Woman Are There In The Comics?

Determining the exact number of Wonder Women in the comics is tricky due to DC’s long history of reboots, alternate realities, and multiple versions of characters. However, here’s a breakdown of the key possibilities:

• The Core Wonder Woman: There’s one primary Wonder Woman: Diana of Themyscira, daughter of Hippolyta. She is the most iconic and consistent Wonder Woman throughout the comics.
• Succession and Legacy: The title of Wonder Woman has been passed down at times:
  • Hippolyta: Diana’s mother briefly became Wonder Woman in the past.
  • Donna Troy (Wonder Girl): Diana’s adopted sister has occasionally taken on the Wonder Woman mantle.
  • Nubia: During the recent Infinite Frontier era, Nubia has shared the title of Wonder Woman alongside Diana.
• Alternate Universes: In DC’s multiverse, there are countless alternate versions of Wonder Woman. Some may be slight variations, while others could be wildly different.
• Wonder Women of Themyscira: While Diana is the most famous, many other Amazons have the potential to become Wonder Woman.

In Summary:

• There’s always one central, iconic Wonder Woman (Diana).
• Sometimes the title is passed down or shared with other worthy Amazons.
• Alternate realities and multiverses offer an almost infinite number of potential Wonder Women.

What Is The Oldest Wonder Woman Comic Book?

The oldest Wonder Woman comic book depends on how you define it:

• First Appearance: Wonder Woman’s debut was in All Star Comics #8 (December 1941). This is technically where she first appeared in the comics.
• Featured Character: Her first appearance where she was a featured character was in Sensation Comics #1 (January 1942).
• Solo Title: Wonder Woman’s first comic where she was the solo protagonist was Wonder Woman #1 (Summer 1942). This is the first book entirely focused on her stories.