Description: Mighty Thor (1966 Series) #337-382 ~ 1st appearance of Beta Ray Bill complete Walt Simonson run AUTOGRAPHED by Walt Simonson on Issue 337 (on inside page 1) Not graded but maintained with great care as a collector (bagged/boarded of course). All picture(s) are of the actual book(s). I will combine shipping costs on multiple orders. If orders do not combine automatically through your cart, I will manually combine the orders and refund “excess” shipping charged to you. If you prefer a different shipping method, please message me prior to purchase and I will invoice you for the adjusted cost. SUMMARY Walt Simonson's run on *The Mighty Thor* (#337–382) is considered one of the most celebrated eras in the character's history, revitalizing Thor with epic storytelling, mythological elements, and bold artistic style. Here's a summary of the major arcs and themes: 1. **Introduction of Beta Ray Bill (Issues #337–340)**: - Simonson introduces a new character, Beta Ray Bill, an alien warrior who is worthy of wielding Thor's hammer, Mjolnir. This storyline explores the concept of worthiness and eventually leads to Odin granting Bill his own hammer, Stormbreaker. Thor and Bill form a powerful alliance and friendship. 2. **Surtur Saga (Issues #341–353)**: - One of the major arcs of Simonson's run, the "Surtur Saga" revolves around the fire demon Surtur's attempt to destroy Asgard and conquer the universe. This arc features epic battles between Asgardians and the armies of Surtur, culminating in a grand confrontation in New York City. Odin, Thor, and Loki unite to stop Surtur in a climactic showdown. Odin seemingly sacrifices himself to defeat Surtur. 3. **Thor's Transformation and Power Struggles (Issues #354–362)**: - After the battle with Surtur, Thor takes on various threats, including the Dark Elves and Hela, the goddess of death. Thor is cursed by Hela, making his bones brittle and incapable of healing. Despite this, Thor continues his heroic efforts, battling on even when he faces certain death. - Thor also faces internal struggles as he temporarily loses his godhood, grappling with identity and mortality. 4. **The Ballad of Skurge the Executioner (Issue #362)**: - One of the most famous single issues, it tells the heroic sacrifice of Skurge the Executioner during a mission to Hel. Once a villain, Skurge dies holding the bridge against an army of the dead, earning his place in Valhalla. This issue became an iconic moment for the character. 5. **The Casket of Ancient Winters and Malekith (Issues #344–349)**: - Malekith the Dark Elf attempts to open the Casket of Ancient Winters, which would plunge the Earth into eternal winter. Thor teams up with Beta Ray Bill and other allies to prevent this catastrophe. Malekith becomes a major recurring villain in Thor's mythology after this arc. 6. **Ragnarok Looms (Issues #371–382)**: - Simonson explores the concept of Ragnarok (the Asgardian end of days) throughout his run, culminating in these final issues where it seems imminent. Thor confronts the Midgard Serpent, and in a nod to Norse mythology, they fight to the death. Thor is transformed into a frog for a brief period (in the humorous yet surprisingly touching "Frog Thor" arc), only to regain his form in time to save Asgard. Simonson's run stands out for its epic scale, creative use of mythology, character development, and striking art style. It reshaped Thor as a cosmic and mythic hero, introducing iconic characters like Beta Ray Bill, adding depth to others like Loki and Odin, and redefining Thor’s adventures for a new generation.
Price: 499 USD
Location: Athens, Georgia
End Time: 2024-12-13T20:05:15.000Z
Shipping Cost: 10.63 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Unit of Sale: Comic Book Lot
Artist/Writer: Walt Simonson
Variant Type: Direct Edition
Character: Beta Ray Bill, Thor (Odinson)
Signed By: Walt Simonson
Tradition: US Comics
Cover Artist: Walt Simonson
Signed: Yes
Series Title: The Mighty Thor
Universe: Marvel (MCU)
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Publication Year: 1983
Type: Comic Book
Format: Single Issue
Language: English
Issue Number: 337 - 382
Era: Bronze Age (1970-83)
Superhero Team: Avengers
Features: First Character Appearance, Key Issue, First Printing
Genre: Superheroes, Action, Adventure