Through a diverse cast of heroes (and the occasional antihero)—Black Panther, Shang-Chi, Deathlok, Dracula, Killraven, Man-Thing, and Howard the Duck—writers such as Steve Gerber, Doug Moench, and Don McGregor made unprecedented strides in exploring their characters' inner lives. Visually, dynamic action was still essential, but the real excitement was taking place inside their heroes' heads. Marvel Comics in the 1970s highlights the brilliant and sometimes gloriously imperfect creations that laid the groundwork for the medium's later artistic achievements and the broader acceptance of comic books in the cultural landscape today.
Eliot Borenstein is Professor of Russian and Slavic Studies at New York University, where he teaches an annual course on the graphic novel. His books include Overkill, Plots against Russia, and Pussy Riot. Follow him on X @eliotb2002 and visit him online at eliotborenstein.net.