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Conan the Barbarian: A Journey Through Time with Roy Thomas (1970-1993)

Pat Mitchell

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Published in Conan The Barbarian (1970 1993) #65 Roy Thomas

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Conan the Barbarian, the legendary warrior from the Hyborian Age, has captured the imaginations of readers and moviegoers worldwide. But behind the beloved character's epic adventures lies a remarkable creative journey, led by one of the most influential writers in comics history: Roy Thomas.

For over two decades, from 1970 to 1993, Thomas penned countless stories that shaped the Barbarian's legacy. His epic "Barbarian Saga," spanning over 100 issues, remains a cornerstone of Conan's mythology. Thomas also introduced iconic characters like Red Sonja and the Witch Queen, expanding the Hyborian world beyond Robert E. Howard's original creations.

Conan The Barbarian (1970-1993) #65

by Roy Thomas

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	78334 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	19 pages

In this comprehensive article, we embark on a journey through the pages of Conan the Barbarian, exploring the major milestones and influences that shaped the character's evolution under Thomas's masterful pen.

The Birth of Conan the Barbarian (1970)

The story of Conan's comic book adventures began in 1970 when Marvel Comics acquired the rights to adapt Robert E. Howard's beloved pulp novels. Stan Lee, the legendary Marvel editor, tasked writer Roy Thomas with creating a series that would do justice to Howard's iconic warrior.

Thomas, a lifelong fan of sword-and-sorcery tales, eagerly embraced the opportunity. He meticulously researched Howard's original stories, capturing the essence of Conan's indomitable spirit and brutal world. With artist Barry Smith, Thomas crafted a captivating first issue that introduced readers to Conan's origins as a Cimmerian barbarian and his quest for vengeance.

The Barbarian Saga (1970-1975)

The early Conan stories set the tone for what would become the epic "Barbarian Saga." Thomas intertwined elements from Howard's works with his original creations, weaving a complex tapestry of adventure, romance, and intrigue.

In his seminal run from 1970 to 1975, Thomas introduced memorable characters like the enigmatic Subotai, the treacherous Thoth-Amon, and the beautiful Valeria. He explored the depths of Conan's character, portraying him as a warrior with a scarred past and a restless heart.

Thomas's writing was both action-packed and introspective, featuring epic battles and intimate moments of reflection. Through Conan's adventures, he explored themes of destiny, betrayal, and the enduring human spirit.

Kull the Conqueror (1971-1975)

In addition to Conan, Thomas also penned stories for the character of Kull the Conqueror, another iconic creation of Robert E. Howard. In the pages of Marvel's "Kull the Conqueror" series, Thomas remained faithful to Howard's original vision while adding his signature flair.

Thomas deftly captured the grandeur of Kull's ancient world, filled with monstrous creatures and powerful sorcerers. He portrayed Kull as a noble warrior with a compassionate heart, struggling to unite his people and defend his kingdom.

Thomas's Kull stories expanded the Hyborian universe, introducing new characters and conflicts that enriched the overall mythology. The series became a beloved companion to Conan the Barbarian, further showcasing Thomas's mastery of sword-and-sorcery storytelling.

Red Sonja (1973)

One of the most significant additions to the Hyborian world came in 1973 with the of Red Sonja. Created by Thomas and artist Barry Smith, Sonja was a fierce and skilled warrior who quickly became a fan favorite.

Thomas based Sonja on the character Red Sonya of Rogatino, mentioned briefly in Robert E. Howard's Conan story "The Shadow of the Vulture." However, Thomas expanded upon Howard's idea, transforming Sonja into a complex and formidable heroine with her unique origin story and motivations.

Sonja's popularity soared, and she eventually starred in her solo series, written by Thomas and other notable writers. The character's adventures showcased Thomas's ability to create strong female characters in a genre traditionally dominated by male heroes.

The Later Years (1975-1993)

After his initial run on Conan the Barbarian ended in 1975, Thomas continued to contribute to the character's legacy through various stories and miniseries. He explored different eras of Conan's life and expanded upon the mythology of the Hyborian Age.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Thomas wrote severalConan the Barbarian limited series, including "Conan the Conqueror," "Conan the Adventurer," and "Conan: The Lord of the Rings." These stories showcased Conan's continued growth and adventures, introducing new allies and adversaries.

Throughout his tenure on Conan, Thomas remained a devoted custodian of Howard's original vision. He respected the core elements of the character while expanding upon them to create a rich and engaging narrative.

Roy Thomas's contributions to Conan the Barbarian are immeasurable. Through his groundbreaking writing, he shaped the character's destiny and expanded the Hyborian world in unforgettable ways. His stories remain timeless classics, beloved by generations of readers.

From the epic "Barbarian Saga" to the of iconic characters like Red Sonja, Thomas's work on Conan represents a significant chapter in the history of comics and fantasy storytelling. His legacy continues to inspire countless creators and fans alike.

As Conan the Barbarian charges into his sixth decade of adventures, Roy Thomas's influence remains a guiding light, ensuring that the legendary warrior will forever endure in the annals of pop culture.

Conan The Barbarian (1970-1993) #65

by Roy Thomas

4 out of 5