One of my favorite comic book concepts has always been Captain Marvel and the power of SHAZAM. A clever synthesis of modern and ancient mythology, the story of Captain Marvel began in Whiz Comics #2 (1940) as orphan Billy Batson was drawn to a mysterious underground chamber. He was met by SHAZAM, a wizard who could channel the power of ancient heroes...all of whom were inscribed as a handy acronym on a nearby wall. Speaking the wizard's name, Billy was magically transformed into the superhero Captain Marvel, who also possessed the abilities of Solomon, Hercules, Atlas, Zeus, Achilles, and Mercury.
As cool as the concept will always be, that acronym of gods, heroes, and a Hebrew king continues to fascinate me. I love the child-like simplicity of its assumption that mythic figures would freely share their power with mortals...but my adult cynicism often kicks in and suggests another story behind the wizard's consolidation of godly power. In other words, it's...
SHAZAM: The Art of the Deal!
(click on the panels for a larger view)
SHAZAM ©DC Comics
Very clever, great comic strip!!
Posted by: Invisible Avenger | September 10, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Posted by: Mark Engblom | September 10, 2008 at 03:53 PM
Hi Hey I needed a good laugh. Thanks for brighting my day! This is what the world needs more humor!
Posted by: Michael Mikulovsky | September 10, 2008 at 06:19 PM
Genius. Funny stuff!
Posted by: greyman24 | September 11, 2008 at 11:18 AM
Very funny cartoon!
Posted by: Andy | October 05, 2008 at 07:22 PM