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Strange Tales #105: The Return of the Wizard (1951)
Overview:
Strange Tales #105, published in February 1963, is a comic book issue written by Stan Lee and Larry Lieber, with artwork by Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko. This issue features the Human Torch facing off against his old foe, the Wizard.
Plot Summary:
The story begins with the Wizard, a brilliant but malevolent inventor, serving time in prison. Due to his good behavior, he is allowed to work in the prison hospital, which he uses to his advantage. The Wizard collects various chemicals and uses them to melt a hole in his cell, successfully escaping from prison.
Upon hearing of the Wizard’s escape, Johnny Storm, also known as the Human Torch, is eager to pursue him. However, his sister, Sue Storm (the Invisible Girl), advises against it. Defying her, Johnny creates a flame duplicate to trick Sue and sets off to confront the Wizard. The Wizard, anticipating Johnny’s move, has prepared an array of weapons to fend off the Human Torch. Despite these obstacles, Johnny manages to fight through the Wizard’s defenses.
Sue, realizing Johnny’s deception, follows him and ends up being captured by the Wizard. Johnny is also captured shortly after. The siblings work together to escape the Wizard’s trap. Using their combined abilities, they manage to subdue the Wizard and return him to custody. Sue then scolds Johnny for his reckless behavior.
Significance:
This issue is significant for several reasons:
- Return of the Wizard: It marks the return of the Wizard, a recurring villain in the Human Torch’s storyline, showcasing his cunning and resourcefulness.
- Sibling Dynamics: The story highlights the relationship between Johnny and Sue Storm, emphasizing their teamwork and familial bond.
- Human Torch’s Growth: Johnny’s determination and ability to overcome the Wizard’s traps demonstrate his growth as a hero, capable of handling significant threats on his own.
Strange Tales #106: The Threat of the Torrid Twosome (1951)
Overview:
Strange Tales #106, published in March 1963, is a comic book issue written by Stan Lee and Larry Lieber, with artwork by Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers. This issue features the Human Torch being tricked by Carl Zante, the “world’s greatest acrobat.”
Plot Summary:
The story begins with Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, being approached by Carl Zante, who convinces Johnny that he is the most valuable member of the Fantastic Four and that he could make a better living working with him. Zante proposes forming a partnership called the "Torrid Twosome".
Zante tricks Johnny into breaking into a bank vault under the pretense that someone is trapped inside. Once inside, Johnny realizes that Zante’s true intention is to rob the bank. When Johnny refuses to go along with the plan, Zante uses a hose to douse Johnny’s flame.
As Zante attempts to escape, he is confronted by the other members of the Fantastic Four. Johnny recovers his flame powers and helps his teammates capture Zante, turning him over to the police. Johnny then claims that he was never fooled by Zante and was just playing along.
Significance:
This issue is significant for several reasons:
- Introduction of Carl Zante: It marks the first appearance of Carl Zante, adding a new character to the Marvel Universe.
- Human Torch’s Independence: The story highlights Johnny Storm’s ability to handle situations independently, even though he initially falls for Zante’s trick.
- Team Dynamics: The issue showcases the teamwork and trust among the Fantastic Four members, reinforcing their bond and collective strength.
Editor's Note:
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