Incredible Hulk (1962) #1-2 Explained

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Incredible Hulk #1: The Coming of Hulk (1962)

Cover copyright Marvel.com

Overview:

"Incredible Hulk #1," published by Marvel Comics in May 1962, was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. It introduces the Hulk, one of Marvel's most iconic characters, and establishes his origin story.

Characters Introduced:

Bruce Banner/The Hulk: A brilliant scientist who transforms into the Hulk, a powerful yet primitive creature, after being exposed to gamma radiation.

Rick Jones: A teenager who becomes a close ally of Banner.

General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross: A military officer determined to capture the Hulk.

Betty Ross: General Ross's daughter and Banner's love interest.

The Gargoyle: A Soviet scientist turned into a monstrous figure by radiation.

Plot Summary:

The Gamma Bomb

The story begins with Dr. Bruce Banner working on a Gamma Bomb. As the countdown nears zero, he sees Rick Jones on the test field and rushes to save him, exposing himself to the gamma radiation. This exposure transforms Banner into the Hulk at nightfall, a gray-skinned giant with immense strength.

First Transformation

Confused and angry, the Hulk causes destruction. The military, led by General Ross, views him as a threat. Rick Jones realizes his connection to the Hulk and vows to help Banner.

The Gargoyle's Capture

The Gargoyle, a Soviet agent, captures Banner and Rick, hoping to use the Hulk for Soviet purposes. However, he sympathizes with Banner and helps them return to the U.S., using his technology to cure himself.

Significance:

"Incredible Hulk #1" explores themes of transformation and scientific consequences, setting the stage for one of Marvel's most complex characters. It emphasizes the duality of Banner and the Hulk, highlighting the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation.

Incredible Hulk #2: The Terror of the Toad Men (1962)

Cover copyright Marvel.com

Overview:

"Incredible Hulk #2," published in July 1962 by Marvel Comics, continues the Hulk's story, expanding his universe with new elements and characters created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.

Plot Summary:

The Invasion Begins

The Toad Men, an alien race, arrive on Earth intending to conquer it. They capture Bruce Banner, hoping to exploit his scientific knowledge. When Banner transforms into the Hulk, he causes chaos aboard their spaceship and escapes. Meanwhile, General Ross and the military mistakenly believe the Hulk is part of the alien threat.

Battle with the Toad Men

The Toad Men proceed with their invasion plans, but the Hulk and Rick Jones work together to stop them. Using Banner's scientific expertise, they create a device that disables the aliens' technology, forcing the Toad Men to retreat and save Earth from invasion.

Significance:

"Incredible Hulk #2" introduces the concept of alien threats, expanding the scope of Hulk's adventures. It emphasizes the ongoing conflict between Banner's human side and his Hulk persona, highlighting the complexities of his dual identity. This issue sets the stage for future stories involving extraterrestrial dangers and further develops the Hulk's character.

Editor’s Note:

The next part Incredible Hulk (1962) #3-4 are now released, visit here. If you have a favorite comic that you'd like us to explain in detail, feel free to leave a comment! You can also reach out to us on Instagram, Discord, or email us at comicexplainedofficial@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow our page for more comic explanations and updates!