How Frank Miller Returned to Daredevil for Born Again

Marvel's Mid-1980s Boom: Iconic Runs and Seismic Shifts

The mid-1980s marked a pivotal era for Marvel Comics, a period of both creative flourishing and significant business success. Having overcome the financial challenges of the late 1970s, Marvel was poised to reshape the comic book landscape. This period saw the release of several landmark stories that continue to resonate with fans today. Let's delve into some of the key narratives and their lasting impact.

Key Storylines and Their Legacy

The era witnessed the release of several seminal works, including Frank Miller's Born Again arc in Daredevil, the return of Jean Grey in X-Factor, and Walt Simonson's Surtur Saga in Thor. These narratives pushed creative boundaries and introduced new directions for beloved characters.

• Frank Miller's Born Again: This critically acclaimed arc, featured in Daredevil #227-233, is considered a definitive Daredevil story. The narrative explores Matt Murdock's complete downfall after his secret identity is revealed, culminating in a powerful redemption arc. Its impact is evident in the Netflix Daredevil series and the upcoming Daredevil: Born Again Disney+ series.

• Walt Simonson's Surtur Saga: Beginning in Thor #337, Simonson's run revitalized the character, introducing Beta Ray Bill and delivering the epic Surtur Saga (#340-353). This saga, featuring the fire demon Surtur's attempt to bring about Ragnarok, influenced both Thor: The Dark World and Thor: Ragnarok.

• Secret Wars: A Defining Moment: 1984's Secret Wars, a 12-part miniseries, stands as a watershed moment. While a mixed bag critically, its massive crossover event format and impact on the Marvel Universe solidified the event comic as a dominant publishing model, influencing both Marvel and DC for decades. The story's marketing tie-in with Mattel also demonstrated the growing importance of merchandising in the comic book industry.

• Spider-Man's Evolution: Roger Stern's run on Amazing Spider-Man, beginning with #224, marked a return to form for the character. His introduction of the Hobgoblin and the black symbiote costume (first appearing in Amazing Spider-Man #252) significantly impacted Spider-Man's mythology and led to the creation of Venom. Peter David and Rich Buckler's The Death of Jean DeWolff in Spectacular Spider-Man #107-110 explored a darker side of the character.

• Mutant Milestones: The mid-1980s also saw significant developments in the X-Men universe. The revelation of Magneto as the father of Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, Rogue's heroic turn, and Magneto's leadership of Xavier's School were pivotal moments. The resurrection of Jean Grey in Avengers #263 and Fantastic Four #286, and the introduction of Apocalypse in X-Factor #5-6, further solidified the X-Men's place in the Marvel landscape.

A Reader Poll: