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Journey Into Mystery #87: Prisoner of the Reds! (1952)
Overview:
Journey Into Mystery #87, published in December 1962, is a comic book issue written by Stan Lee and Larry Lieber, with artwork by Jack Kirby and inking by Dick Ayers. This issue features Thor, the Norse God of Thunder, in a Cold War-era adventure. The story is titled “Prisoner of the Reds.”
Plot Summary:
The story begins with American scientists mysteriously defecting to the Soviet Union. Dr. Donald Blake, who is also Thor, decides to investigate by pretending to have developed a new biological weapon. His plan works, and he is soon kidnapped by Soviet agents and taken to Russia.
In Russia, Blake is imprisoned with the other defected scientists. He transforms into Thor and easily breaks out of his cell, overcoming various traps set by the Russians. However, the commanding officer threatens to destroy the dungeon, killing everyone inside, forcing Thor to surrender. Thor is shackled in special chains that prevent him from using his powers.
Despite the chains, Thor reverts to his human form as Donald Blake, which allows him to slip out of the restraints. Blake then helps the scientists escape back to America. The issue ends with Blake reflecting on the adventure and the ongoing Cold War tensions.
Significance:
This issue is significant for several reasons:
- Cold War Context: The story reflects the Cold War tensions of the early 1960s, with a plot centered around American scientists defecting to the Soviet Union. This context adds a layer of historical significance to the narrative.
- Character Development: The issue explores the dual identity of Thor and Donald Blake. It highlights Blake’s determination to contribute to his country despite his physical limitations, showcasing his bravery and intelligence.
- Introduction of Characters: The issue introduces new characters such as John Blandings, Sylvia Blandings, and Colonel Edward Harrison. These characters add depth to the story and expand the universe of Thor.
- Jane Foster’s Affection: The issue delves into Jane Foster’s feelings for Thor, adding depth to the romantic subplot between her and Donald Blake. This subplot is a recurring theme in Thor’s stories and adds emotional complexity to the character.
Journey Into Mystery #88: The Vengeance of Loki (1952)
Overview:
Journey Into Mystery #88, published in January 1963, is a comic book issue written by Stan Lee and Larry Lieber, with artwork by Jack Kirby and inking by Dick Ayers1. This issue features Thor and his nemesis Loki in a thrilling battle.
Plot Summary:
The story, titled “The Vengeance of Loki,” begins with Loki, who has been exiled from Asgard by Odin, discovering Thor’s mortal identity as Dr. Donald Blake. Loki, determined to defeat Thor, transforms himself into a snake to sneak past Heimdall and cross the Bifrost Bridge to Earth.
Once on Earth, Loki disguises himself as an old man and hypnotizes Jane Foster, giving her secret commands. He then confronts Donald Blake in his office, challenging Thor to a duel in Central Park. Thor accepts the challenge and heads to the park, unaware that Jane is under Loki’s control.
In Central Park, Loki uses his magic to transform trees into tigers and bazookas into birds, creating chaos. During the battle, Loki turns a tree into a tiger and sets it upon Jane, forcing Thor to choose between saving her or retrieving his hammer. Thor chooses to save Jane, but in doing so, he is separated from his hammer for more than 60 seconds and reverts to Donald Blake.
Loki captures Blake and takes him to a remote location, but Blake manages to escape and retrieve his hammer, transforming back into Thor. Thor then uses his wits to outsmart Loki, ultimately capturing him with a net and a bag of peanuts, leading to Loki’s most humiliating defeat.
Significance:
This issue is significant for several reasons:
- Loki’s Schemes: It showcases Loki’s cunning and magical abilities, as he uses various tricks to try and defeat Thor.
- Thor’s Heroism: Thor’s decision to save Jane over retrieving his hammer highlights his heroic nature and willingness to sacrifice his powers for others.
- Character Development: The issue further develops the relationship between Thor and Jane Foster, adding emotional depth to the story.
Editor's Note:
The next part Journey Into Mystery (1952) #89-90 is 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!
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