Featuring: Dr. Strange
Release: May 9, 1963
Cover: August 1963
12 cents
Story: Stan Lee
Art: Steve Ditko
5 pages
I read this story in Marvel Masterworks: Dr. Strange vol. 1.
Another Dr. Strange story. Again a mere 5 pages. Again no hint on the cover that this tale is within. The cover focuses entirely on Human Torch and the Asbestos Man. The issue also contains a short text story, a sci/fi tale about a computer taking over the world, and this at the end.
The final panel this time lets us know Dr. Strange will not be returning next issue, but rather in “a future issue”. That’s likely Marvel hedging their bets, waiting to see sales numbers or look at letters and fan response before committing to more Dr. Strange stories.
Dr. Strange doesn’t show up until page 3. When we get a better shot of that cool window we discussed last issue. Well, not the same window, as that was on a door. But the same pattern.
That said, this issue is setting up for future tales: Dr. Strange now has an archnemesis. As Loki is to Thor, Mordo will be to Dr. Strange. Because the fan response will be strong and the character will return. Might even get his own movies one day.
Weakened, the Master tries to get out advice to Dr. Strange. He tries to say the word “amulet”. The amulet was the answer last issue, too; again, the Master’s idea. At some point, Dr. Strange will no longer need his master to remind him he wears an amulet that does stuff. But he’s still a student in some ways.
Rating: ★★★½, 62/100
Characters:
- Dr. Strange
- The Master
- Baron Mordo
Story notes:
- The Master’s residence located in Tibet; last issue it was described only as a remote part of Asia.
- Dr. Strange notes he had tried to warn the Master about Mordo for years, suggesting this is the first obvious sign of Mordo’s betrayal.
- Eye of amulet described as “all-seeing eye”.
#82 story in reading order
Next: Tales to Astonish #46
Previous: Strange Tales #111
