1792 Coins

In a previous post, Comic Chat (Identity Crisis | Superman: Speeding Bullets), I discussed the DC Comics Elseworlds imprint.  Marvel Comics released a few similar concept titles, of which Marvel 1602 is one of my favorites.  In this 8 issue series, several of the key 1960's Marvel characters are developed in the Elizabethan era, approximately 1602.  They are not only representative of real world persons of this era, but also have reworked origin stories and names to fit the time period.  The cover art on each of the 8 issues is produced with an etched scratch-board effect.  The basic plot is that there is a mysterious force taking over the world and leading to a supposed end of days type scenario.  As each of the characters emerge in the story, they all find that something is up with the world, something's not quite right.  So they struggle not only to solve the bigger mystery of this wonkiness of the world, but also their own abilities starting to manifest.

I loved this series.  Not only are you along for the ride as the characters work to solve the mystery, but you also get to discover the various ways that the classic Marvel characters are worked into the story.  For someone who was not at all current with the past several decades of character and story development of the Marvel Universe, this was a great comic series to be reintroduced to the key characters from my childhood.  The added bonus was the interweaving of little cameo like historical references into the work.  As much as I want to walk you through the entire list of characters and their 1960's superhero counterparts, as well as the historical figure references, I will hold my comments back.  I want you to experience the revelation of each character on your own.

Marvel 1602 #8

Aside from a really groovy concept and fabulous storytelling, the cover and internal artwork is also amazingly beautiful and a unique departure from the more traditional 'comic book' style.  This adds to the overall experience and environment of the story.

If you haven’t read this series, let me implore you to do so.  I’ll even go so far as to provide a hid.im below.  If you like the series, please pick up a copy over at Midtown Comics, the best, hands down, comic store on the planet.  I’ve gone through a few local comic stores and never received the personalized and professional service that was demonstrated by the folks over at Midtown Comics.

Marvel 1602

As always, feel free to comment or ask questions about any of the ideas shared in this post.

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