For nearly a century, DC Comics has featured one of the most complex and intricate fictional universes, marked by numerous retcons, crises, and reboots. The expansive timeline has seen a myriad of characters and plotlines reshaped in various ways, making it clear that almost every element within the DC Universe has been subject to revision at some point.
These retcons have significantly influenced how fans perceive the iconic superheroes; while some revisions are embraced, others spark controversy. This article delves into ten critical retcons in DC’s history, highlighting their impact on both the universe itself and its fanbase.
10
Better: Superboy Prime Punching the Multiverse
Infinite Crisis: Secret Files and Origins #1 by Marv Wolfman, Dan Jurgens, Art Thibert & Others
The DC Universe is no stranger to outrageous events, and one of the most whimsical retcons involves Superboy Prime literally punching reality. This moment pays homage to Superman’s extraordinary power levels from the Silver Age, showcasing just how formidable Superboy Prime can be, while also injecting a playful element characteristic of comic book storytelling.
Despite some fans expressing discontent with this alternate version of Clark Kent, the punch effectively resolves various continuity issues, from Hawkman’s convoluted backstory to the origins of Donna Troy and the resurrection of Jason Todd. Superboy Prime’s actions leave an indelible mark on the fabric of DC Comics as fans recognize it today.
9
Worse: Rogol Zaar’s Destruction of Krypton
The Man of Steel by Brian Michael Bendis and Team
Krypton’s destruction is a cornerstone of Superman’s origin and serves as a powerful narrative symbol. Traditionally portrayed as a fate brought on by the Kryptonians’ hubris, the introduction of Rogol Zaar as a saboteur shifts the narrative, undermining the complexity of Krypton’s demise. Instead of being a cautionary tale about environmental neglect, it recasts Kryptonians as mere victims of external forces.
This reinterpretation dilutes Superman’s foundational themes concerning responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions, redirecting focus away from the poignant lessons that emerged from the original narrative.
8
Worse: Barry Allen Creating the Speed Force
The Flash: Rebirth by Geoff Johns and Team
The Speed Force, a central concept in the Flash mythos, has seen varying origins, but the most debated of all is the assertion that Barry Allen created it. Initially revealed in The Flash: Rebirth, this retcon diminishes the mystique of the Speed Force by linking it directly to Barry’s actions, thereby making the universe feel smaller.
This change has faced opposition from numerous fans of Wally West and expanded the debate over what constitutes legacy within the superhero genre. While some appreciate this focus on Barry, others feel it diminishes the contributions and significance of previous Flashes.
7
Better: Streamlining the Hawks’ History
Hawkman #7 by Robert Venditti and Team
Hawkman and Hawkgirl have long been characterized by a tangled backstory with intertwining timelines and contrasting narratives. Their transformation into reincarnated beings or cosmic enforcers only added to the complexity. However, the introduction of Ktar Deathbringer in 2018’s Hawkman #7 adeptly simplifies their origin.
This revelation frames Hawkman as a general cursed to reincarnate until he redeems his past misdeeds, thereby creating a consistent narrative thread that clarifies the history of the Hawks, while also enriching their characters.
6
Worse: Identity Crisis (All of It)
Identity Crisis by Brad Meltzer and Team
While stories set during pivotal comic eras often garner mixed responses, the developments in the Identity Crisis miniseries were particularly polarizing. The tragic fate of Sue Dibny sparked outrage as it dissected the ethics surrounding superhero justice. The narrative choices not only led to brutal consequences for characters but also revealed a dark undercurrent in how women were portrayed within the story.
Decades later, the themes presented in Identity Crisis remain contentious, forever altering the interpretation of heroism in the DC Universe and casting shadows over its previously celebrated legacy.
5
Better: Green Lantern’s Parallax Possession
Green Lantern: Rebirth by Geoff Johns and Team
Before Hal Jordan’s transformation into Parallax, he was one of DC’s most iconic heroes. His redemption arc in Green Lantern: Rebirth not only restored his legacy but also redefined the DC Universe’s approach to emotional storytelling through the lens of the Emotional Spectrum.
This essential shift laid the groundwork for decades of intricate plots and character developments within the Green Lantern lore, marking a pivotal moment in understanding the complexities of heroism and villainy in DC Comics.
4
Worse: Wonder Woman’s True Heritage in the New 52
Wonder Woman #3 by Brian Azzarello and Team
Traditionally, Wonder Woman’s origin, where she was sculpted from clay and brought to life by the goddesses, served as a powerful symbol of female empowerment. However, the New 52’s retcon, which framed her as the daughter of Zeus, shifted this narrative considerably.
This change not only made Diana’s lineage more reminiscent of male-centric mythology but also detracted from the empowering themes that her original clay origin symbolized. The additional narrative of a twin brother further obscured female representation in the storyline, challenging the core values that Wonder Woman stood for.
3
Better: Swamp Thing’s True Identity
The Saga of the Swamp Thing #21 by Alan Moore and Team
Swamp Thing is a beloved character whose depth was significantly expanded through Alan Moore’s influential storyline. The critical twist revealed that Swamp Thing was not merely Alec Holland, but a golem that absorbed Holland’s consciousness posthumously.
This profound revelation heightened the narrative surrounding identity and humanity, adding layers of tragedy to the character and prompting readers to reconsider what it means to be alive and oneself.
2
Better: Alfred Pennyworth Raising Batman After His Parents’ Deaths
Batman: Year One by Frank Miller and Team
The bond between Batman and Alfred Pennyworth is emblematic of the hero’s story. Initially not a central component of Batman’s narrative, it was only with Batman: Year One that Alfred was solidified as Bruce Wayne’s surrogate father.
This integral relationship not only provided emotional grounding for Batman’s character but also enriched the narrative, intertwining themes of loss, family, and trust, which resonate deeply within Bruce’s ongoing journey.
1
Better: The Kents Raising Superman
Superman #1 by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster
The storyline surrounding Superman’s origin has evolved significantly, famed for its poignant encapsulation: “Doomed planet. Desperate scientists. Last hope. Kindly couple.” Originally, however, the Kents played a negligible role in Clark’s story, as he began his life in an orphanage.
Through retellings, the Kents emerged as his adoptive parents, profoundly shaping Superman’s values of truth and justice. This evolution has cemented the Kents as quintessential figures in the Superman mythos, highlighting the importance of family in Kal-El’s journey to becoming a global icon of hope.
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