Unveiling the Barbaric Legacy: Conan the Barbarian in Comic Books, 1970-1993

Prologue: The Birth of a Barbarian Legend

In the annals of fantasy literature, Robert E. Howard's Conan the Barbarian stands tall as a towering icon. His adventures, first chronicled in the pulp magazines of the 1930s, captivated readers with their raw savagery and epic scope. By the 1970s, Conan's legend had found a new home in the realm of comic books.

Conan The Barbarian (1970-1993) #59

by Roy Thomas

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	83382 KB
Print length	:	20 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

1. 1970-1975: Roy Thomas and the Savage Sword

In 1970, Marvel Comics launched a groundbreaking series titled Conan the Barbarian. Spearheaded by writer Roy Thomas, this series transported readers to the Hyborian Age, a prehistoric era where savage warriors clashed amidst ancient ruins.

Thomas's writing infused Conan with a gritty realism that had been lacking in previous adaptations. He delved into the character's complex psychology, revealing his strength, his vulnerability, and his unwavering determination. The art team, led by Barry Windsor-Smith and John Buscema, brought Conan's brutal world to life with stunningly detailed panels that showcased the barbarian's raw power and the epic scale of his adventures.

2. 1975-1980: The Savage Sword of Conan

In 1975, Marvel launched a companion series titled The Savage Sword of Conan. Unlike its predecessor, this series published longer stories that allowed Thomas and his team to explore Conan's world in greater depth.

Thomas drew inspiration from Howard's original stories, adapting many of them for the comic book medium. He also introduced new characters and expanded the lore of Hyboria, creating a rich and immersive world that captivated readers. The Savage Sword of Conan became renowned for its lush artwork and its ability to capture the essence of Howard's timeless tales.

3. 1980-1984: The Dark Horse Period

In 1980, the rights to Conan the Barbarian were acquired by Dark Horse Comics. Under their stewardship, Thomas continued to write the main Conan series, which maintained its high quality and remained a critical and commercial success.

However, Dark Horse also experimented with new formats and approaches to the character. In 1982, they launched Conan the Destroyer, a spin-off series that followed Conan as he battled a powerful sorcerer. They also published a number of one-shots and anthologies that explored different aspects of Conan's life and adventures.

4. 1984-1993: The Return of Marvel and the Hyborian Saga

In 1984, the rights to Conan the Barbarian returned to Marvel Comics. Thomas rejoined the creative team and embarked on a new era for the character. He penned an ambitious epic titled The Hyborian Saga, which spanned several years and featured an all-star cast of characters from Conan's world.

The Hyborian Saga was a critical and commercial success, and it cemented Thomas's legacy as one of the definitive Conan writers. The series showcased his deep understanding of the character and his ability to craft epic tales that resonated with readers.

5. Legacy and Impact

Roy Thomas's contributions to Conan the Barbarian in comic books are immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping the character's iconic image and expanding his mythos. His writing brought Conan to life with a depth and complexity that had not been seen before, and his stories continue to inspire and entertain readers to this day.

The Conan the Barbarian comic books of the 1970s and 1990s are a testament to the enduring power of Howard's creation. They captured the essence of the character's raw savagery and epic adventures, and they established Conan as one of the most iconic figures in the realm of fantasy.

Epilogue: A Barbarian for the Ages

Conan the Barbarian has transcended the pages of comic books to become a global phenomenon. His adventures have been adapted into films, television shows, and video games. He has inspired countless works of art and literature. And his legacy continues to grow, as new generations of fans discover the timeless appeal of the Hyborian Age's greatest warrior.

Conan The Barbarian (1970-1993) #59

by Roy Thomas

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	83382 KB
Print length	:	20 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE