Kingdom Come Summary of Mark Waid's Book

Kingdom Come by Mark Waid: A DC Comics Epic

Kingdom Come by Mark Waid is a graphic novel that delves into a future where metahumans have run rampant and are seen as a menace to society. This book, first published on October 1, 1996, is part of the Kingdom Come #1-4 saga, and it takes readers on a journey through a world where traditional superheroes such as Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman try to contain the escalating disaster and prevent a metahuman war.

Characters

• Oliver Queen: Also known as Green Arrow, Oliver Queen is a skilled archer and a member of the Justice League.
• Carter Hall: Carter Hall, also known as Hawkman, possesses the ability to fly and has a strong connection to the mystical properties of his Hawkman gear.
• Aquaman: The King of Atlantis, Aquaman has the ability to communicate with sea creatures and has superhuman strength and durability.
• Dick Grayson: Dick Grayson, also known as Nightwing, is a former sidekick to Batman and a skilled acrobat and martial artist.
• Sandman: A mystical character who has control over dreams and sleeps.
• Red Tornado: An android with the ability to manipulate air currents and create powerful tornadoes.
• Edward Nigma: Also known as The Riddler, Edward Nigma is a cunning villain known for his complex riddles and puzzles.
• Kal-El (Earth-22): The original Superman, Kal-El is one of the most powerful beings on Earth with superhuman strength, speed, and the ability to fly.
• Bruce Wayne: Also known as Batman, Bruce Wayne is a billionaire playboy and a vigilante who fights crime in Gotham City.
• Wonder Woman: Princess Diana of Themyscira, Wonder Woman is an Amazonian warrior with superhuman strength, agility, and the ability to fly.
• Wally West: The third Flash, Wally West has the ability to move at superhuman speeds and manipulate time.

Detailed Summary

Kingdom Come opens with a world on the brink of chaos. Metahumans, individuals with superhuman abilities, have multiplied exponentially, wreaking havoc and terrorizing society. In response to this growing threat, Superman and Wonder Woman have established a sanctuary called The Gulag to contain rogue metahumans and prevent further destruction.

However, tensions rise as Batman, who has retired due to the escalation of metahuman violence, returns to challenge Superman's methods. Batman believes that metahumans should be held accountable for their actions, while Superman advocates for a more lenient approach. As the conflict between the two heroes intensifies, the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

Meanwhile, Lex Luthor manipulates events behind the scenes, orchestrating a metahuman war that threatens to engulf the planet in chaos. With the help of a reformed Joker, Luthor seeks to spark a conflict that will decimate humanity and establish metahumans as the dominant species on Earth.

As the battle between Superman's faction and Batman's followers escalates, a new hero emerges in the form of the Spectre, a divine being who serves as the embodiment of God's vengeance. With the Spectre's intervention, the heroes are forced to confront their own flaws and the consequences of their actions.

In a climactic showdown, Superman must make the ultimate sacrifice to save Earth from destruction. With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, the heroes must come together to prevent a cataclysmic metahuman war that could spell the end of humanity.

Extensive Analysis

Kingdom Come by Mark Waid is a thought-provoking graphic novel that explores complex themes such as power, responsibility, and the nature of heroism. Through its richly developed characters and intricate plot, the book challenges readers to question the consequences of unchecked power and the role of superheroes in society.

One of the key themes of Kingdom Come is the tension between traditional heroes like Superman and Wonder Woman and a new generation of metahumans who operate without regard for the consequences of their actions. The book raises important questions about the responsibilities of those with extraordinary abilities and the impact of their choices on the world around them.

Additionally, Kingdom Come delves into the moral ambiguity of heroism, highlighting the complex motivations and actions of its characters. Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman are depicted as flawed individuals who struggle with their own weaknesses and the consequences of their actions. Through their interactions and conflicts, the book explores the nuances of heroism and the challenges of navigating a morally complex world.

Overall, Kingdom Come is a gripping and thought-provoking graphic novel that offers a fresh perspective on the superhero genre. With its compelling story, complex characters, and deep thematic exploration, this book is a must-read for fans of DC Comics and graphic novels in general.

If you enjoyed this summary of Kingdom Come by Mark Waid, be sure to pick up the complete book to immerse yourself in this epic tale of heroism, power, and redemption. Alternatively, you can listen to the audiobook for a dynamic and engaging experience that brings the story to life in a whole new way. Dive into the world of Kingdom Come and discover a powerful and unforgettable saga that will leave you questioning the nature of heroism and the limits of power.

9781563893308 (ISBN10: 1563893304)