The Ultimate Visual Guide to the Comic Universe

Superman

Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster in 1938, Superman is the archetypal superhero. Hailing from the planet Krypton, Kal-El was sent to Earth to protect humanity and uphold the ideals of truth, justice, and the American way.

Batman

A vigilante who operates in the shadows, Batman was created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger in 1939. Driven by the loss of his parents, Bruce Wayne decided to dedicate his life to fighting crime in Gotham City.

Wonder Woman

An Amazonian warrior princess, Wonder Woman was created by William Moulton Marston and H. G. Peter in 1941. With her superhuman strength and unwavering sense of justice, Diana of Themyscira is a beacon of hope.

Spider-Man

Created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko in 1962, Spider-Man is a relatable and flawed hero. Peter Parker, a teenage high school student, gained spider-like abilities after being bitten by a radioactive spider.

The Hulk

A scientist whose anger transforms him into a monstrous green-skinned being, the Hulk was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1962. Bruce Banner struggles to control his inner rage, but the Hulk often emerges as a formidable protector.

Crisis on Infinite Earths

A 12-issue limited series published in 1985, "Crisis on Infinite Earths" was a landmark event that reshaped the DC Comics universe. The story saw the multiverse collapse, resulting in the creation of a single, unified DC continuity.

The Dark Knight Returns

A four-issue limited series published in 1986, "The Dark Knight Returns" is a seminal work by Frank Miller. It depicts an aging Batman who returns to Gotham City to confront a new generation of criminals and social unrest.

Watchmen

A 12-issue limited series published in 1986-1987, "Watchmen" is widely considered one of the greatest graphic novels of all time. It tells the story of a group of vigilante superheroes who uncover a plot to destroy the world.

The Infinity Gauntlet

A six-issue limited series published in 1991, "The Infinity Gauntlet" is a major crossover event in the Marvel Comics universe. It features Thanos, a powerful warlord who acquires the Infinity Stones and threatens to wipe out half of all life.

Civil War

A seven-issue limited series published in 2006-2007, "Civil War" is a major event in the Marvel Comics universe. It depicts a conflict between superheroes over the Superhero Registration Act, which requires all superhumans to register their identities with the government.

Golden Age (1930s-1950s)

The Golden Age saw the birth of iconic superheroes such as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. Comic books became widely popular during this period, with publishers like DC Comics and Marvel Comics dominating the market.

Silver Age (1950s-1970s)

The Silver Age saw the of new characters and concepts, such as the Fantastic Four and Spider-Man. Marvel Comics became a major competitor to DC Comics during this period, and comic books began to explore more mature themes and social issues.

Bronze Age (1970s-1980s)

The Bronze Age was a period of experimentation and change in the comic book industry. Graphic novels became more popular, and creators began to push the boundaries of storytelling and artistic expression.

Modern Age (1980s-present)

The Modern Age has seen the continued growth of the comic book industry, with the rise of new publishers and the increasing popularity of creator-owned and independent comics. Digital comics and webcomics have also become increasingly prevalent.