In this review of The Wicked + The Divine, we delve into a groundbreaking comic series that brilliantly fuses ancient mythology with the vibrant energy of modern storytelling. Imagine a world where legendary figures, like Lucifer — also known as Apollyon, the fallen angel of light — return to the earthly realm every ninety years, igniting both awe and fear in their wake. Joining Lucifer are other iconic characters steeped in Greek mythology, including the prophetic Cassandra, the party-loving Dionysus, the wise Minerva (aka Athena), and the enigmatic Persephone, each bringing their own unique flair to this enthralling story.
In “The Wicked + The Divine” world where pop stardom and extraordinary abilities reign supreme, a select group known as “The Pantheon” emerges from the shadows. Each member of this enigmatic assembly was once an ordinary individual, chosen by fate to bond with the essence of a powerful deity. However their existence is fleeting, never lasting beyond a mere two years from the onset of their journey, and this cycle reawakens every nine decades — a phenomenon known as the Resurgence. It seems that the soul destined to embody a specific divinity has no choice but to accept this divine transformation, for it is a calling they cannot decline.
This innovative premise sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of fame, power, and the fleeting nature of existence. It’s a vibrant universe where mythology collides with modernity, offering a spectacular tapestry of drama, action, and suspense.
This review focuses on book one of “The Wicked + The Divine,” featuring illustrations exclusively from this volume. However, it’s important to note that some of the storylines discussed also intersect with other issues in the series.
The Wicked + The Divine: The Pantheon of Gods
“The Wicked + The Divine” (Kieron Gillen: writer, Jamie McKelvie: artist, Matthew Wilson: colourist, Clayton Cowles: letterer) is more than a comic series; it’s an epic odyssey that invites you to ponder the nature of divinity and humanity, as every immortal encounter whispers secrets of the universe waiting to be uncovered.
In each cycle, a rotation of 12 distinct deities reincarnates into vessels of varying genders. Among them, Lucifer stands out as the most frequently reincarnated. Minerva follows closely behind with five appearances of her own.
Baal, The Morrigan, Dionysus, Inanna, Set, and Woden have each manifested three times, while Amaterasu, Mimir, and The Norns have been seen on two occasions. Other deities are confirmed to have made at least one reappearance.
The story of Persephone is far more complex than it seems. Once thought to be the elusive 13th goddess, she eventually emerged as the authentic 12th goddess in the divine pantheon. This revelation came to light when Minerva was revealed to be a mere shadow of a true deity. As the intricate tapestry of myths unfolds, Persephone’s true nature and her pivotal role in the cosmic cycle beckon us to explore the depths of divine intrigue, where identities shift and truths are constantly redefined. What other secrets lie hidden in the depths of their celestial drama?
Picture a realm where celestial beings of unimaginable charisma and boundless creativity gracefully descend to Earth, radiating brilliance that eclipses even the most luminous stars in the night sky. Adored and revered by mortals, these extraordinary deities bask in the glory of their worship, celebrated as the very essence of inspiration and power.
Yet, hidden beneath their radiant exteriors lies a harsh truth: their time on this earthly stage is fleeting, a shimmering candle caught in the relentless current of time. Each heartbeat echoes a countdown, each breath a reminder that every precious moment is both a gift and a race against destiny. What will unfold as the clock ticks down and the boundaries between heaven and Earth blur?
Why Are the Gods Returning? Exploring the Reasons Behind Their Return
Why are these twelve celestial beings returning? To wage war against the forces of darkness, or so the legends claim! While that’s certainly one reason given for their arrivals, the true motivations remain shrouded in mystery.
This captivating narrative also unravels the stories of lesser-known deities like Baal, infusing the tale with rich layers of intrigue and complexity. Each character is vividly portrayed, driven by their own ambitions, conflicts, and artistry. As the story unfolds, it transforms into more than just a clash of light and dark; it becomes a profound exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and the intricate tapestry of divine power.
Prepare to be spellbound by a world where celestial destinies collide, and the stakes are nothing less than the fate of the cosmos itself!
The Wicked + The Divine: Comic Characters
The cast of characters in “The Wicked + The Divine” is nothing short of a mythological tapestry, weaving together an extensive array of fascinating figures. Prepare to encounter names of well-known Greek gods and goddesses, but also delving into deities from cultures that may be new to you.
The Wicked + The Divine: Luci (Lucifer)
The series follows Laura Wilson, a 17-year-old multiracial teen from Brockley who serves as the narrator of her own journey. She’s a passionate “fangirl” of the Pantheon — the group of twelve individuals who discover they are reincarnated gods endowed with both celebrity status and extraordinary powers.
Laura is deeply captivated by their world and struggles to manage her overwhelming emotions when she’s around the Pantheon, often burying her true feelings in an effort to blend in. Driven by an intense longing to connect with these gods, she’s prepared to sacrifice everything for a taste of their extraordinary world.
After witnessing a mesmerizing performance by Amaterasu, Laura has her first encounters with several Pantheon members, ultimately forging a friendship with Lucifer, affectionately called Luci.
In the early stages of the story, Luci finds herself in the depths of a courtroom drama, where tension hangs thick in the air. Just when the proceedings reach their peak, she snaps her fingers, triggering a shocking spectacle: the judge’s head erupts in a shower of chaos, leaving the courtroom in utter disbelief.
All eyes turn to Luci, convinced she’s orchestrated this horrific act. However, beneath the surface of this gruesome spectacle lies a deeper conspiracy, as Luci’s convinced she’s been framed for a crime she didn’t commit.
Laura’s instincts tell her that Luci didn’t do it and believes in her innocence, even though she has a nagging doubt creeping into her mind. Meanwhile, Cassandra’s uncertainty churns within her like a storm.
As tensions rise, their divergent beliefs force them into an uneasy alliance, igniting a quest for the truth that could unravel everything they thought they knew about Lucifer and the dark forces at play. Could it have been another god?
The Pantheon
Baal is a prominent deity within the rich tapestry of the Pantheon, revered for his power and influence.
At the outset, it appears that other formidable figures such as Sakhmet, Minerva, Ananke, and Amaterasu are also included in this divine assembly.
Each of these goddesses brings their own unique attributes and stories, intertwining their fates with Baal’s in a grand narrative that explores themes of strength, wisdom, fate, and illumination. Delve into the intricate relationships and adventures that unfold within this captivating Pantheon, as these deities navigate their roles in a world filled with both challenges and triumphs.
Ananke: The Public Face of the Pantheon
Ananke presents herself as the public face of the Pantheon, operating as an intermediary between the gods and the world, yet she remains distinct from them.
Unlike her youthful counterparts, she has experienced the passage of time and exhibits an almost parental demeanor towards the deities. In a poignant revelation, Ananke discloses that she sacrificed her divinity in a previous cycle of The Recurrence to safeguard the future members of the Pantheon.
Despite her stern approach to the newly resurrected gods, there is an undeniable maternal bond that she shares with them. In a haunting moment, she expresses her sorrow, stating that she will miss them just before she takes their lives, shedding tears in her wake. This emotional complexity adds depth to her character, illustrating the struggle between her protective instincts and her grim duties.
Minerva (Athena): The Wicked + The Divine
Minerva is the youngest member of the Pantheon, just 12 years old, and she constantly strives to be part of significant discussions, only to be sidelined by the older gods. Her youth is attributed to her status as a virgin goddess, which is restricted to hosts that share her purity.
In her life in Valhalla, Minerva seems to be under the watchful eye of her parents, who dictate her every action. However, these supposed guardians are merely unrelated individuals bribed by Ananke to maintain a façade. In reality, Minerva is not a true deity but a piece of Ananke’s cycle of immortality. Ananke represents an older version of Minerva, and the two share a complex bond, seeing themselves as one entity. They maintain distinct consciousnesses until they perform a ritual that unites them, after which Ananke’s death allows Minerva to inherit all the knowledge from her past incarnations.
To navigate her world and project the image of a goddess, Minerva utilizes technology reminiscent of that wielded by the Valkyries. When her grand plan unravels, she bravely reveals the truth to the remaining members of the Pantheon. In a tragic climax, she meets her end at Valentine’s hands when he intentionally falls from a great height while clutching onto her, leading to their mutual destruction.
Visually, Minerva’s appearance draws inspiration from the military-style costumes famously donned by iconic pop groups like The Beatles and Queen, blending a sense of artistry and rebellion to her character.
Minerva is the Roman equivalent of Athena. If you’re interested in exploring her fascinating story further, check out this review: “By George!: Athena Graphic Novel is Good.”
Prometheus: The Wicked + The Divine
What’s this talk about Prometheus supposed to mean?
You’ll have to read “The Wicked + The Divine” to find out.
Dionysus God Character: The Wicked + The Divine
Much like the tales woven in ancient Greek mythology, where Dionysus is celebrated as the god of wine and revelry, he embodies the spirit of unrestrained celebration and ecstatic joy. With a penchant for lively gatherings and unending festivities, Dionysus invites all to partake in the fervor of life, reminding us that amidst the chaos of existence, there is always room for jubilation and connection.
Whether through the intoxicating allure of wine or the rhythmic pulse of music and dance, his presence ignites a sense of liberation and adventure that echoes through the ages.
Dionysus, once known as Umar, possesses the extraordinary ability to evoke a euphoric, drug-like state in those around him, granting him a measure of control over their minds.
His journey begins at a lively concert of The Morrigan, where he first appears as an enthusiastic fan before undergoing a dramatic transformation into something far greater. Yet, with great power comes considerable burden; he is plagued by the cacophony of voices echoing in his mind, leaving him tormented and unable to find solace in sleep.
Baal God Character: The Wicked + The Divine
Baal, who was once known as Valentine Campbell, emerged as the first deity from the tumultuous 2014 Recurrence. In a previous life, he shared a passionate relationship with Inanna, but a painful betrayal unraveled their bond when she chose to be with Lucifer — an act that continues to wound him deeply. While he presents a fierce and aggressive demeanor to the world, deep within lies a more vulnerable side waiting to be discovered.
Baal harnesses the raw power of electricity, using it to propel his car at breakneck speeds and to conjure a cage of crackling lightning. Initially introducing himself as Baal Hadad, he is, in truth, the sky and fire god known as Baal Hammon.
Deceived by the cunning Ananke and Minerva, he finds himself ensnared in a dark pact that compels him to sacrifice children every four months to repel the Great Darkness that claimed his father’s life. The devastation sets in when he uncovers the haunting truth behind this ritual, leading him to vow to fight against Minerva’s schemes.
In a tragic turn, Valentine relinquishes his divine status, leaving unspoken the weight of what it meant to him, before taking a devastating plunge from a ledge with Minerva in his grasp—an act of murder-suicide that echoes his inner turmoil.
Initially reviled by Zahid, Cassandra, and Laura for his gruesome sacrifices, they eventually come to see Baal as a tragic figure—a tortured soul striving to protect others at his own peril.
Visually, Baal is inspired by the unmistakable presence of Kanye West, adding an additional layer of intrigue to his complex character.
Cassandra Igarashi: The 12th Member of the Pantheon
Urdr, formerly known as Cassandra Igarashi, was a trans woman and a hard-nosed reporter who approached the supernatural elements of the Pantheon with skepticism. However, her life takes an extraordinary turn when she is transformed into Urdr, the 12th member of the Pantheon. Alongside her two sisters, Verðandi and Skuld — who were once her camera crew, Meredith and Zoe—they unite to become The Norns.
Unlike many of the gods, Urdr remains unaffected by their music, except for the melodies of Persephone. It is only when she joins forces with Dionysus that she discovers a way to experience his music, allowing her to forge a deeper connection with the divine.
While Cassandra always harbored doubts about the Pantheon’s miracles, believing them to be fabrications, she nonetheless yearned to demonstrate their validity through her own powers. It isn’t until the true nature of the twelve is unveiled that she recognizes the irony in her aspirations.
Cassandra Igarashi, formerly recognized as Urdr, the Norse Goddess of the past and fate and one of the three Norns, began her journey as a journalist investigating the Recurrence of the 2010s. Initially a skeptic of the Pantheon’s assertions of divinity, she ultimately became a member of their ranks, all the while maintaining her critical perspective on their actions. She embodies the symbolism of a tree with numerous branches and deep roots, representing her connection to the past and the intricate web of fate.
The 13th Goddess: Persephone
Persephone, once known as Laura Wilson, makes her dramatic debut at the conclusion of the 11th issue (the last issue in The Wicked + The Divine: Book One), where Ananke transforms her into what appears to be a new deity within the Pantheon.
Endowed with the ability to summon vibrant vines from the earth and to reveal past events to others, her powers seem formidable. However, her backstory reveals that she once carried a child, either from Baal Haamon or Nergal, adding layers to her character.
As the narrative unfolds, Laura comes to the profound realization that she is not a true goddess and opts to revert to her human form. Despite this transformation, she retains the ability to conjure fire and possesses some limited powers associated with performance. In a groundbreaking move, Laura becomes the first to renounce her divinity, choosing to help her fellow gods awaken to their own truths.
Her journey takes a darker turn when she is arrested and put on trial for Ananke’s murder. After serving her sentence, Laura finds a new path in life as she marries Cassandra, marking a rebirth of sorts.
The Wicked + The Divine: Review
In conclusion, The Wicked + The Divine: Book One is a vibrant and thought-provoking exploration of myth, fame, and the fleeting nature of existence, all wrapped in stunning visuals that captivate the senses. The artwork by Jamie McKelvie is nothing short of breathtaking, with a striking color palette and dynamic layouts that breathe life into the characters and their extravagant world. Each panel pulsates with energy, drawing readers into the mesmerizing realm where gods walk among humans, making you feel the weight of their powers and the burdens they bear.
However, the weight of the narrative can also feel overwhelming at times. With a plethora of gods and goddesses introduced alongside their complex backstories, newcomers to the pantheon may find themselves lost in the intricate web of their relationships and histories. While the multidimensional characters offer richness to the story, the rapid pace and lack of background information occasionally muddle the overall experience. Yet, it’s this very chaos that mirrors the essence of the tale — fame is fleeting, and understanding the gods is like grasping at shooting stars.
Despite its complexities, this volume lays the foundation for an exhilarating journey into the heart of divinity and human aspiration. Readers are invited to peel back layers of meaning alongside the characters, unraveling themes of identity, mortality, and the price of greatness.
With its blend of high-stakes drama and philosophical undertones, The Wicked + The Divine promises a uniquely engaging reading experience that keeps you turning the pages.
I give The Wicked + The Dive: Book One a rating of 7 out of 10.
Book One collects comic issues #1 through #11, presenting the captivating beginning of this epic series that spans a remarkable total of 51 issues, including 47 regular installments and 6 special editions. While I probably won’t continue my journey through the rest of the series, one thing is certain: I am grateful to have experienced the first eleven issues. This initial arc is a tantalizing introduction that immerses readers in a world of intrigue, vibrant characters, and breathtaking storytelling — a ride that promises to stick with you long after you turn the last page.
For your convenience, you can also explore the story through eight trade paperback volumes, along with an additional volume dedicated to the specials, resulting in a complete collection of nine trade paperbacks.
Check Availability and Pricing: The Wicked + The Divine: Book One
The Wicked + The Divine triumphed as Best Comic at the 2014 British Comic Awards. Additionally, in 2015, the series received nominations for three categories at the Eisner Awards, including Best New Series, Best Cover Artist, and Best Coloring. Moreover, in 2018, it was recognized once again with a nomination for Best Continuing Series at the Eisner Awards.
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