Featuring: Thor
Release: January 3, 1964
Cover: March 1964
12 cents
Cunningly conceived by: Stan Lee
Daringly drawn by: Jack Kirby
Ingeniously inked by: Chic Stone
Lovingly lettered by: Art Simek
13 pages
Well. It’s 1964. Welcome.
But not for Thor. He’s trapped in the 23rd century.
This is our first exposure to Chic Stone. He’s been working in comics since the 1930s, including on Marvel’s own Blonde Phantom, but has spent the last several years doing art direction for assorted magazines. He recently returned to doing occasional jobs in comics, and now has found his way to back Marvel. I think he and Kirby make a good team.
Last issue, Odin halved Thor’s powers. Apparently he then forgot he did so as Thor was defeated by the Tomorrow Man and brought to the future to serve him.
Even with his powers halved, Thor is not helpless. He can still use his hammer to focus alpha particles from the atmosphere. He can still reflect the sun with his hammer to hypnotize people. And of course he can still time travel. Just the basics.
Thor fulfills his promise to help Zarrko conquer the 23rd century. Having completed his vow, he immediately overthrows Zarrko.
Odin calls Thor his favorite son all the time. But this time he’s actually talking to Loki. You only have two sons, Odin.
I am attempting to track the gradual fancying up of Thor’s language. This issue we get phrases like “alas” and “witless boasting”.
Rating: ★★★☆☆, 50/100
Significance: ★★★☆☆
I read this story in Marvel Masterworks: The Mighty Thor vol. 2. It is also available in Thor Epic Collection vol. 1: God of Thunder. Or on Kindle.
Characters:
- Thor
- Zarrko
- Loki
- Odin
Story notes:
- Recap of last issue with added detail that Odin had forgotten he took half Thor’s powers when he was being ashamed of Thor’s defeat.
- Thor can focus alpha particles from the atmosphere with his hammer.
- Thor can reflect the sun with his hammer to hypnotize people
- Even with his power halved, Thor can still time travel.
- Zarrko arrested and imprisoned in maximum security area.
#159 story in reading order
Next: Journey Into Mystery #102, Story C
Previous: Journey Into Mystery #101, Story C
