Doctor Stephen Strange is a
fictionFiction is the form of any narrative or informative work that deals, in part or in whole, with information or events that are not factual, but rather, imaginary—that is, invented by the author. Although fiction describes a major branch of literary work, it may also refer to theatrical,...
al
characterA character is the representation of a person in a narrative work of art . Derived from the ancient Greek word kharaktêr , the earliest use in English, in this sense, dates from the Restoration, although it became widely used after its appearance in Tom Jones in 1749. From this, the sense of...
that appears in
comic bookA comic book or comicbook is a magazine made up of comics, narrative artwork in the form of separate panels that represent individual scenes, often accompanied by dialog as well as including...
s published by
Marvel ComicsMarvel Worldwide, Inc., commonly referred to as Marvel Comics and formerly Marvel Publishing, Inc. and Marvel Comics Group, is an American company that publishes comic books and related media...
. The character was co-created by writer-editor
Stan LeeStan Lee is an American comic book writer, editor, actor, producer, publisher, television personality, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics....
and artist
Steve DitkoStephen J. "Steve" Ditko is an American comic book artist and writer best known as the artist co-creator, with Stan Lee, of the Marvel Comics heroes Spider-Man and Doctor Strange....
, and first appeared in
Strange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#110 (July 1963).
Debuting in the
Silver AgeThe Silver Age of Comic Books was a period of artistic advancement and commercial success in mainstream American comic books, predominantly those in the superhero genre. Following the Golden Age of Comic Books and an interregnum in the early to mid-1950s, the Silver Age is considered to cover the...
of comics, the character has featured in several self-titled series and Marvel-endorsed products including arcade and video games; animated television series; a
direct-to-DVDDirect-to-video is a term used to describe a film that has been released to the public on home video formats without being released in film theaters or broadcast on television...
film; and merchandise such as trading cards.
1960s
The character, co-created by writer-editor
Stan LeeStan Lee is an American comic book writer, editor, actor, producer, publisher, television personality, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics....
and artist
Steve DitkoStephen J. "Steve" Ditko is an American comic book artist and writer best known as the artist co-creator, with Stan Lee, of the Marvel Comics heroes Spider-Man and Doctor Strange....
, debuted in
Strange TalesStrange Tales is the name of several comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It introduced the features "Doctor Strange" and "Nick Fury, Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.", and was a showcase for the science fiction/suspense stories of artists Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, and for the...
#110 (July 1963), a "split book" shared with fellow Marvel character the
Human TorchHuman Torch, in comics, may refer to:* Human Torch , the original Timely Comics character* Human Torch, Marvel Comics' member of the Fantastic Four...
until issue #134 (July 1965), and then super-spy
Nick FuryColonel Nicholas Joseph "Nick" Fury is a fictional World War II army hero and present-day super-spy in the Marvel Comics universe. Created by artist Jack Kirby and writer Stan Lee, Fury first appeared in Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos #1 , a World War II combat series that portrayed the...
until issue #168 (May 1968). Strange appeared in issues #110-111 and #114 before the character's eight-page
origin storyIn comic book terminology, an origin story is an account or back-story revealing how a character or team gained their superpowers and/or the circumstances under which they became superheroes or supervillains....
appeared in #115 (Dec. 1963).
Ditko drew the feature through
Strange Tales #146 (July 1966), and during this period he and Lee introduced many of Strange's allies, such as his eventual lover
CleaClea is a fictional character, a sorceress in the . She is the disciple and lover of Doctor Strange. Created by co-plotters Stan Lee and Steve Ditko , Clea first appeared in the Doctor Strange feature in Strange Tales #126 .Clea is a human-appearing being and maternally related to the...
, who debuted (although not initially named) in
Strange Tales #126 (Nov. 1964); and enemies, such as
NightmareNightmare is a fictional character, a supernatural being who has appeared in many Marvel Comics stories, most commonly as one of Doctor Strange and Ghost Rider's major enemies.-Publication history:...
in #110, and the flame-headed
DormammuDormammu is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Strange Tales #126 Dormammu is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Strange Tales #126 Dormammu is a...
, in #126 (Nov. 1964). "Doctor Strange" stories showcased
surrealisticSurrealism is a cultural movement that began in the early 1920s, and is best known for the visual artworks and writings of the group members....
mystical landscapes and increasingly head-trippy visuals that helped make the feature a favorite of college students. Comics historian Mike Benton wrote,
"People who read 'Doctor Strange' thought people at Marvel must be heads [e.g., drug users]," recalled then-associate editor and former Doctor Strange writer
Roy ThomasRoy William Thomas, Jr. is an American comic book writer and editor, and Stan Lee's first successor as editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics. He is possibly best known for introducing the pulp magazine hero Conan the Barbarian to American comics, with a series that added to the storyline of Robert E...
in 1971, "because they had had similar experiences high on mushrooms. But ... I don't use hallucinogens, nor do I think any artists do."
Eventually, as co-plotter and later sole plotter, in the "
Marvel MethodThe Marvel Method is a form of comic book writer-artist collaboration in which the artist works from a story synopsis, rather than a full script, creating page-by-page plot details on his or her own...
", Ditko would take Strange into ever-more-abstract realms. In an epic 17-issue story arc in
Strange Tales #130-146 (July 1965 - July 1966), Ditko introduced the cosmic character
EternityEternity is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by scripter-editor Stan Lee and artist-plotter Steve Ditko, the character is first mentioned in Strange Tales #134 and first appears in Strange Tales #138 Eternity is a fictional character that...
, who personified the universe and was depicted as a silhouette whose outlines are filled with the cosmos. As historian Bradford W. Wright describes,
From the beginning, stories revealed that Doctor Strange used magical artifacts to augment his power, such as the
Cloak of LevitationThe Cloak of Levitation is a potent mystical item worn by Doctor Strange, a character in the Marvel Comics universe. The primary purpose of the Cloak is to give its wearer the ability to levitate and fly. The first appearance of the first Cloak was in "Strange Tales" #110, produced in 1963...
, the
Eye of AgamottoThe Eye of Agamotto is a fictional mystical item in the Marvel Comics universe. The artist Steve Ditko, drew inspiration from the real world charm called 'The All Seeing Eye of the Buddha', known among Buddhists as "The Amulet of Snail Martyrs", a Nepali symbol meant to protect its wearer against...
, in
Strange Tales #115 (Dec. 1963); the
Book of the VishantiThe Book of the Vishanti is a fictional grimoire appearing in Marvel Comics, most closely associated with the character of Doctor Strange. It first appeared in Strange Tales #116 and was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. It is the greatest known source of "white" magical knowledge on the...
in #116 (Jan. 1964); and the
Orb of AgamottoThe Orb of Agamotto is a fictional magical item in the Marvel Comics universe. It is a powerful scrying crystal ball owned and used by Doctor Strange for clairvoyance. It can also be used to detect magic in use anywhere in the world and provide Strange with a location and visual.The orb rests in...
in #118 (March 1964). From the first story, Strange's residence, the
Sanctum SanctorumThe Sanctum Sanctorum is a fictional building in the Marvel Universe. It first appeared with Doctor Strange in his debut in Strange Tales #110 .-Location:...
, was a part of the character's mythos. The trademark circular window divided by three sweeping lines on the front of the residence (actually the protective Seal of the Vishanti) appeared in many Doctor Strange stories. Strange's personal servant,
WongWong is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe. He is the sidekick and manservant of Doctor Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth. Wong was first mentioned in the comic Strange Tales #110 and first appeared in Strange Tales #147. In the 2006 miniseries Dr. Strange: the Oath, it was revealed...
, introduced in #147 (Aug. 1966), guarded the residence in his absence.
In keeping with Lee's emphasis on continuity, Strange was also quickly established as part of the Marvel Universe, and guest starred in
The Fantastic FourThe Fantastic Four is a fictional superhero team appearing in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The group debuted in The Fantastic Four #1 , which helped to usher in a new level of realism in the medium...
#27 (June 1964), encountered the
NorseNorse mythology, a subset of Germanic mythology, is the overall term for the myths, legends and beliefs about supernatural beings of Norse pagans. It flourished prior to the Christianization of Scandinavia, during the Early Middle Ages, and passed into Nordic folklore, with some aspects surviving...
god
LokiLoki is a fictional character, a supervillain that appears in publications by Marvel Comics. He is the adoptive brother and archenemy of the superhero Thor. He is based on the being of the same name from Norse mythology...
, foster brother of
ThorThor is a fictional superhero who appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 and was created by editor-plotter Stan Lee, scripter Larry Lieber, and penciller Jack Kirby....
, in
Strange Tales #123 (August 1964), and guest-starred with Ditko's other major Marvel co-creation in
The Amazing Spider-ManThe Amazing Spider-Man is an American comic book series published by Marvel Comics, featuring the adventures of the fictional superhero Spider-Man. Being the mainstream continuity of the franchise, it began publication in 1963 as a monthly periodical and was published continuously until it was...
Annual #2 (1965).
The series continued with Lee dialoging Ditko's plots through
Strange Tales #142, followed by
Roy ThomasRoy William Thomas, Jr. is an American comic book writer and editor, and Stan Lee's first successor as editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics. He is possibly best known for introducing the pulp magazine hero Conan the Barbarian to American comics, with a series that added to the storyline of Robert E...
(two issues) and Denny O'Neil (two issues). Ditko's last issue was
Strange Tales #146, with
Golden AgeThe Golden Age of Comic Books was a period in the history of American comic books, generally thought of as lasting from the late 1930s until the late 1940s or early 1950s...
artist/writer
Bill EverettWilliam Blake "Bill" Everett, also known as William Blake and Everett Blake was a comic book writer-artist best known for creating Namor the Sub-Mariner and co-creating Daredevil for Marvel Comics...
succeeding Ditko as artist until issue #152, followed by
Marie SeverinMarie Severin is an American comic book artist and colorist best known for her work for Marvel Comics and the 1950s' EC Comics....
through #160 and
Dan AdkinsDan Adkins is an American illustrator who worked mainly for comic books and science-fiction magazines.-Early life and career:...
through #168, the final issue before the "Nick Fury" feature moved to its own title and
Strange Tales was renamed
Doctor Strange.
Lee returned to write the character in
Strange Tales #151-157; followed by Thomas (#158-159); and two writers who did virtually no other Marvel work, Raymond Marais (#160-161) and Jim Lawrence (#162-166). The post-Ditko
Strange Tales stories introduced another cosmic entity, the
Living TribunalThe Living Tribunal is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Strange Tales #157 June 1967 and was created by Stan Lee, Marie Severin and Herb Trimpe.-Publication history:The Living Tribunal debuted in a storyline called "The...
, in issue #157 (June 1967) and the evil
UmarUmar is a fictional character who resides in the "Dark Dimension" of the Marvel Comics multiverse. She is a Faltine, but is trapped in human form. Although she is a sorceress and has vast magical powers, she is still second to her brother Dormammu...
, sister of Dormammu, in #150 (Nov. 1966). The title, however, was flagging, with Strange encountering such one-off foes such as Nebulos and Voltorg in
Strange Tales #162 (Nov. 1967) and #166 (March 1968), respectively.
The now 20-page
Doctor Strange solo series ran 15 issues, #169-183 (June 1968 - Nov. 1969), continuing the numbering of
Strange Tales. Thomas wrote the run of new stories (
Strange Tales #179 being a reprint), joined after the first three issues by the art team of penciler
Gene ColanEugene Jules "Gene" Colan was an American comic book artist best known for his work for Marvel Comics, where his signature titles include the superhero series, Daredevil, the cult-hit satiric series Howard the Duck, and The Tomb of Dracula, considered one of comics' classic horror series...
and
inkerThe inker is one of the two line artists in a traditional comic book or graphic novel. After a pencilled drawing is given to the inker, the inker uses black ink to produce refined outlines over the pencil lines...
Tom Palmer-Biography:Although Palmer has done a small amount of pencilling work , the vast majority of his artistic output since the 1960s has been as a comic book inker...
through the end. Thomas and Colan attempted to boost sales by revamping Strange and making the character closer to being a superhero. Given a form-fitting blue costume, a full-head mask and a
secret identityA secret identity is an element of fiction wherein a character develops a separate persona , while keeping their true identity hidden. The character also may wear a disguise...
as
Dr. Stephen Sanders, the character teamed with the superheroes the Black Knight in
Doctor Strange #178 (March 1969) and
Spider-ManSpider-Man is a fictional Marvel Comics superhero. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and writer-artist Steve Ditko. He first appeared in Amazing Fantasy #15...
in #179 (April 1969), and he battled the
X-MenThe X-Men are a superhero team in the . They were created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, and first appeared in The X-Men #1...
foe
JuggernautThe Juggernaut is a fictional character that appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in X-Men #12 , and was created by writer Stan Lee and artist/co-plotter Jack Kirby....
in #182 (Sept. 1969). The cancellation with #183 was abrupt (there was a "Next issue" blurb in the last issue), and outstanding storylines were resolved in
Sub-Mariner #22 (Feb. 1970) and
The Incredible HulkThe Hulk is a fictional character, a superhero in the . Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in The Incredible Hulk #1 ....
vol. 2, #126 (April 1970).
Thomas recalled in 2000 that he eloped in July 1968 to marry his first wife, Jean, and returned to work a day late from a weekend
comic book conventionA fan convention, or con , is an event in which fans of a particular film, television series, comic book, actor, or an entire genre of entertainment such as science fiction or anime and manga, gather to participate and hold programs and other events, and to meet experts, famous personalities, and...
to find that Marvel production manager
Sol BrodskySol Brodsky was an American comic book artist who, as Marvel Comics' Silver Age production manager, was one of the key architects of the small company's expansion to a major pop culture conglomerate. He later rose to vice president, operations and vice president, special projects...
had assigned
Doctor Strange to writer
Archie GoodwinArchie Goodwin was an American comic book writer, editor, and artist. He worked on a number of comic strips in addition to comic books, and is best known for his Warren and Marvel Comics work...
, newly ensconced at Marvel and writing
Iron ManIron Man is a fictional character, a superhero in the . The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee, developed by scripter Larry Lieber, and designed by artists Don Heck and Jack Kirby, first appearing in Tales of Suspense #39 .A billionaire playboy, industrialist and ingenious engineer,...
. Thomas convinced Brodsky to allow him to continue writing the title. "I got very possessive about
Doctor Strange," Thomas recalled. "It wasn't a huge seller, but [by the time it was canceled] we were selling the low 40 percent range of more than 400,000 print run, so it was actually selling a couple hundred thousand copies [but] at the time you needed to sell even more."
1970s – 1990s
Strange next appeared in the first three issues (Dec. 1971 - June 1972) of the quarterly showcase title
Marvel FeatureMarvel Feature was the name of two comic book showcase series published by Marvel Comics in the 1970s. The first volume led to the launching of the new ongoing series The Defenders and Marvel Two-in-One, while volume two led to the new ongoing series Red Sonja.- Volume One :The first series was a...
, appearing in both the main story detailing the formation of superhero "non-team" the
DefendersThe Defenders is the name of a number of Marvel Comics superhero groups which are usually presented as a "non-team" of individualistic "outsiders," each known for following their own agendas...
, and the related back-up story. The character then starred in a revival solo series in
Marvel PremiereMarvel Premiere is an American comic book anthology series published by Marvel Comics. It ran for 61 issues from April 1972 to August 1981....
#3-14 (July 1972 – March 1974). This arc marked the debut of another recurring foe, the entity
Shuma-GorathShuma-Gorath is a fictional character created by Robert E. Howard, best known for his later interpretations as a demonic enemy of Doctor Strange in Marvel Comics publications. He is also well known for being an unconventional playable character in the Marvel Super Heroes and Marvel vs. Capcom video...
, created by writer
Steve EnglehartSteve Englehart is an American novelist. In his earlier career he was a comic book writer best known for his work at Marvel Comics and DC Comics, particularly in the 1970s...
and artist
Frank BrunnerFrank Brunner is an American comic book artist and illustrator best known for his work at Marvel Comics in the 1970s.-Comics:...
. In issues #8-10 (May-Sept. 1973), in order to stop Shuma-Gorath from entering our reality, Strange was forced to shut down the Ancient One's mind, causing his mentor's physical death. The Ancient One, however, assured Strange this was a necessary sacrifice and his soul merged with the cosmic entity Eternity. With the Ancient One's death, Strange then assumed the title of
Sorcerer SupremeSorcerer Supreme or Sorceress Supreme is a title granted in the fictional Marvel Universe to the "practitioner of the mystic or magic arts who has greater skills than all others or commands a greater portion of the ambient magical energies than any other organism on a given world or dimension". By...
.
The
Marvel Premiere series segued to the character's second ongoing title,
Doctor Strange: Master of the Mystic Arts, also known as
Doctor Strange vol. 2, which ran 81 issues (June 1974 – Feb. 1987). During this period Strange met his allies
TopazTopaz is a fictional character, a sorceress in the Marvel Comics universe. She debuted in Werewolf By Night v. 1 #13 .-Fictional character biography:...
in #75 (Feb. 1986) and Rintrah in #80 (Dec. 1986). The series ended with a cliffhanger as the Sanctum Sanctorum was heavily damaged during a battle. Among the losses was Doctor Strange's entire collection of mystic books and other important artifacts. As a consequence, Strange was now considerably weaker and several spells designed to protect humanity from vampires and the evil serpent god Set would now expire.
Following the title's cancellation, the character's adventures continued in
Strange Tales vol. 2, #1-19 (April 1987 – Oct. 1988), which was again published in the "split book" format, shared with street heroes
Cloak and DaggerCloak and Dagger are a fictional comic book superhero duo in the . They were created by writer William "Bill" Mantlo and designed by artist Edward Hannigan.-Publication history:...
. This new Doctor Strange series resolved Strange's quest to reclaim his power and missing artifacts, as well as resurrect the Defenders who had died in the last issue of that team's title.
Strange then appeared in another self-titled series,
Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme, which ran 90 issues (Nov. 1988 - June 1996). The initial creative team was writer
Peter B. GillisPeter B. Gillis is an American comic book writer best known for his work at Marvel Comics and First Comics in the mid-1980s, including the series Strikeforce: Morituri, and the digitally drawn comic series Shatter.-Biography:...
and artists
Richard CaseRichard Case is an American comics artist, most often seen published by the Vertigo imprint of DC Comics. His credits include pencilling the majority of issues of Grant Morrison's run on Doom Patrol, as well as drawing Jamie Delano's limited series Ghostdancing, the final story arc of Peter...
and
Randy EmberlinRandy Emberlin is a comic book artist. He is best known for his ink work on the Spider-Man comic books. Per the bio on his website, he currently lives in Portland, OR. He has spent the past 30 years working in a variety of creative fields...
, with storylines often written as multi-issue arcs. Strange lost the title of "Sorcerer Supreme" in issues #48-49 (Dec. 1992 – Jan. 1993) when he refused to fight a war on behalf of the
VishantiThe Vishanti are a fictional triumvirate of powerful mystical beings appearing in the Marvel Comics universe. The three beings who make up the Vishanti are Agamotto the All-Seeing , Omnipotent Oshtur , and Hoary Hoggoth...
, the mystical entities that empower his spells. During this time the series became part of the "Midnight Sons" group of Marvel's supernatural comics, and Doctor Strange found new sources of magical strength in the form of chaos magic as well as a magic-fueled robot he used as a proxy. He would also form the Secret Defenders with a rotating roster of heroes, and reunite with the original Defenders. Strange regained his title in
Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme #80 (Aug. 1995).
Strange appeared – together with original regulars the Human Torch and the
ThingThe Thing is a fictional character, a founding member of the superhero team known as the Fantastic Four in the Marvel Comics universe. He was created by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee in The Fantastic Four #1...
– in the one-shot publication
Strange Tales vol. 3, #1 (Nov. 1994).
The character was also featured in several
limited seriesA limited series is a comic book series with a set number of installments. A limited series differs from an ongoing series in that the number of issues is determined before production and it differs from a one shot in that it is composed of multiple issues....
, the first being
Doctor Strange: The Flight of Bones #1-4 (Feb.–May 1999), with a series of
spontaneous combustionSpontaneous combustion is the self-ignition of a mass, for example, a pile of oily rags. Allegedly, humans can also ignite and burn without an obvious cause; this phenomenon is known as spontaneous human combustion....
s by criminals instigated by old foe Dormammu. Strange was the catalyst for the creation of a trio of sorceresses in
WitchesWitches is a supernatural comic book limited series that was published by Marvel Comics in 2004. Plotted by Bronwyn Carlton, with scripts by Brian Walsh, it featured art by Mike Deodato and Will Conrad.-Publication history:...
#1-4 (Aug.–Nov. 2004), A third limited series,
Doctor Strange: The Oath #1-5 (Dec. 2006 – April 2007), written by Brian K Vaughan and illustrated by
Marcos MartinMarcos Martín is a Spanish comic book artist who worked for American comics, illustrating Batgirl: Year One, Doctor Strange: The Oath, Breach. He is the current artist of The Amazing Spider-Man...
, focused on Strange's duty as Sorcerer Supreme and the nature of his powers.
Doctor Strange has also appeared in four graphic novels over the years:
Doctor Strange: Into Shamballa (1986);
Doctor Strange & Doctor Doom: Triumph and Torment (1989);
Spider-Man/Dr. Strange: The Way to Dusty Death (1992); and
Dr. Strange: What is it that Disturbs You, Stephen? (Oct. 1997).
The character has remained a constant in the Marvel Universe over the decades, appearing on a regular basis in three volumes of the title
Defenders,
Secret Defenders, and a limited series focused on the Defenders,
The Order #1-6 (April–Sept. 2002). Strange appeared in several stories of the superhero team-up titled aptly named
Marvel Team-UpMarvel Team-Up is the name of several American comic book series published by Marvel Comics. The series featured two or more Marvel characters in one story...
and other one-off stories in
Marvel Two-in-OneMarvel Two-In-One was an American comic book series published by Marvel Comics that featured the Fantastic Four member, the Thing, in a different team-up each issue with a different character. The series continued from the team-up stories starring the Thing in the final two issues of Marvel...
#6 (Nov. 1974) and #49 (March 1979), and several issues of
Marvel FanfareMarvel Fanfare is the title of two comic book series published by Marvel Comics. Both versions of Marvel Fanfare were anthology, showcase titles featuring a variety of characters from the Marvel universe.-Volume One:...
, He starred in stories in the
alternate universeA parallel universe or alternative reality is a hypothetical self-contained separate reality coexisting with one's own. A specific group of parallel universes is called a "multiverse", although this term can also be used to describe the possible parallel universes that constitute reality...
title
What If?What If, sometimes rendered as What If...?, is the title of several comic book series published by Marvel Comics, exploring "the road not traveled" by its various characters...
#18 (Dec. 1979) and #40 (Aug. 1983). He also appeared, either in person or behind the scenes, with the titular trio of vampire slayers in the 19-issue run of
NightstalkersThe Nightstalkers is a fictional trio of preexisting characters in comic books published by Marvel Comics. A team of occult experts, they reluctantly banded together to fight supernatural threats....
. (Nov. 1992 – April 1994).
2000s –
Strange appeared as a supporting character the 2000s. In
New Avengers #7 (July 2005), writer
Brian Michael BendisBrian Michael Bendis is an American comic book writer and erstwhile artist. He has won critical acclaim for his self-published, Image Comics and Marvel Comics work, and is one of the most successful writers working in mainstream comics, with his books selling consistently highly for over a...
retconned Marvel history and established that in the past, several metahumans, including Strange, formed a secret council called the Illuminati to deal with future threats to Earth. In present-day continuity, during the 2006-2007 company-wide
Civil WarCivil War is a 2006-2007 Marvel Comics crossover storyline built around a self-titled seven-issue limited series written by Mark Millar and penciled by Steve McNiven, which ran through various other titles published by Marvel at the time...
storyline involving the introduction of a federal Superhuman Registration Act, which splits the superhero community, Strange is opposed to mandatory registration. Beginning with
New Avengers #27 (April 2007), he secretly shelters in his residence the anti-registration splinter group of the Avengers. The legislation was eventually repealed. Strange then sought out a successor Sorcerer Supreme. After he had considered several magic-users such as
WiccanWiccan is a comic book character, a member of the Young Avengers, a team of superheroes in the Marvel Universe. His appearance is patterned on that of Thor and Scarlet Witch....
, the
Scarlet WitchThe Scarlet Witch is a fictional comic book character that appears in books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appears in X-Men #4 and was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby...
,
MagikMagik is a Marvel Comics character, associated with the X-Men. She is the younger sister of the Russian X-Man Colossus.-Publication history:...
, and
Doctor DoomVictor von Doom is a fictional character who appears in Marvel Comics publications . Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in Fantastic Four #5 wearing his trademark metal mask and green cloak...
, the Eye of Agamotto chose
Brother VoodooBrother Voodoo is a fictional character, a supernatural superhero in the Marvel Universe. Created by writer Len Wein and artist Gene Colan, he first appears in Strange Tales #169...
in
New Avengers #54 (Aug. 2009). Rechristened Doctor Voodoo, he sacrifices himself in
New Avengers vol. 2, #6 (Jan. 2011) in order to stop the powerful mystical entity
AgamottoAgamotto is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe. He is known mainly as the source of the Eye of Agamotto—a tool of magical clairvoyance used by superhero sorcerer Doctor Strange.-Publication history:In a preface to the Dr...
from reclaiming the Eye. The following issue, a guilt-ridden Strange, rejoining the New Avengers, offers the team his servant Wong to act as their housekeeper.
Powers and abilities
Doctor Strange is a master magician, and was the holder of the title of "Sorcerer Supreme" of the cosmos for many years. Eternity, the sentience of the
Marvel UniverseThe Marvel Universe is the shared fictional universe where most comic book titles and other media published by Marvel Entertainment take place, including those featuring Marvel's most familiar characters, such as Spider-Man, the Hulk, the X-Men, and the Avengers.The Marvel Universe is further...
, has described Strange as "more powerful by far than any of your fellow humanoids", narration has described him as "the mightiest magician in the cosmos", and the
StrangerThe Stranger is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics.The Stranger first appeared in X-Men #11 , and was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.-Fictional character biography:...
considers him on a level with
cosmic entitiesCosmic entities, also referred to as cosmic beings, are a type of fictional character in the . They possess power on a stellar, galactic, universal, or even multiversal level, far beyond those of humans or conventional superheroes, and frequently serve some natural function in the...
.
Doctor Strange can use magic to achieve virtually any effect he desires, such as
telepathyTelepathy , is the induction of mental states from one mind to another. The term was coined in 1882 by the classical scholar Fredric W. H. Myers, a founder of the Society for Psychical Research, and has remained more popular than the more-correct expression thought-transference...
, energy blasts,
teleportationTeleportation is the fictional or imagined process by which matter is instantaneously transferred from one place to another.Teleportation may also refer to:*Quantum teleportation, a method of transmitting quantum data...
,
astral projectionAstral projection is an interpretation of out-of-body experience that assumes the existence of an "astral body" separate from the physical body and capable of traveling outside it...
, the creation of materials (such as food and water), creating planet-wide
protective shieldsA force field, sometimes known as an energy shield, force shield, or deflector shield is a concept of a field tightly bounded and of significant magnitude so that objects affected by the particular force relating to the field are unable to pass through the central axis of the field and reach the...
, restoring himself from bodily destruction, or resurrecting the dead.
When casting a spell, the character is often written to be invoking the name of a mystical entity, such as one of the
VishantiThe Vishanti are a fictional triumvirate of powerful mystical beings appearing in the Marvel Comics universe. The three beings who make up the Vishanti are Agamotto the All-Seeing , Omnipotent Oshtur , and Hoary Hoggoth...
(
HoggothHoggoth is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.-Publication history:The character appears in Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme #43 , #48-49 , and #54 ....
, Oshtur, and
AgamottoAgamotto is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe. He is known mainly as the source of the Eye of Agamotto—a tool of magical clairvoyance used by superhero sorcerer Doctor Strange.-Publication history:In a preface to the Dr...
) or the group the Octessence. These entities usually lend their power to a particular effect, such as the Crimson Bands of
CyttorakCyttorak is a fictional character appearing in the Marvel Comics universe. A mystical entity, he is the deity that powers Juggernaut through the artifact known as Crimson Gem of Cyttorak. He was created by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Alex Toth...
, that Strange can use to entrap foes.
Strange is capable of stopping and reversing time, sealing
black holeA black hole is a region of spacetime from which nothing, not even light, can escape. The theory of general relativity predicts that a sufficiently compact mass will deform spacetime to form a black hole. Around a black hole there is a mathematically defined surface called an event horizon that...
s, restoring universes, absorbing power enough to unconsciously destroy any surrounding galaxies, growing to the size of and merging with universal concepts, and helped to channel the mass of the entire Marvel Universe. Among other things, he has defeated the
In-BetweenerThe In-Betweener is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Warlock #10 The In-Betweener is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Warlock #10 The...
, and the
BeyonderThe Beyonder is a fictional character in . Created by Jim Shooter and Mike Zeck, the immensely powerful Beyonder first appeared in Secret Wars vol. 1 #1 as an unseen force. He reappears in Secret Wars II #1 , which was created by Jim Shooter and Al Milgrom.-Publication history:The Beyonder was a...
stated that Strange had him at a disadvantage when in a previously disoriented state. Strange has shown he is able to contact others telepathically even if his body is paralyzed.
Strange was also schooled in the use of dark magic by one-time foe Kaluu, using it to temporarily destroy the entity
Shuma-GorathShuma-Gorath is a fictional character created by Robert E. Howard, best known for his later interpretations as a demonic enemy of Doctor Strange in Marvel Comics publications. He is also well known for being an unconventional playable character in the Marvel Super Heroes and Marvel vs. Capcom video...
. The use of this magic, however, was both addictive and corruptive and Kaluu had to
purgeIn history, religion, and political science, a purge is the removal of people who are considered undesirable by those in power from a government, from another organization, or from society as a whole. Purges can be peaceful or violent; many will end with the imprisonment or exile of those purged,...
the magic from Strange before it could take full effect.
Since passing the mantle of the Sorcerer Supreme and the Eye of Agamotto to Doctor Voodoo, Strange's magic is not as powerful as it once was. However, he is still a considerably formidable sorcerer regardless.
Enemies
- Baron Mordo
Baron Karl Amadeus Mordo is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain published by Marvel Comics and appearing as an enemy of Doctor Strange...
- Traitorous fellow student to the Ancient OneThe Ancient One is a fictional character in the Marvel Comics Universe. He was the mentor of Doctor Strange and preceded him as Sorcerer Supreme.-Fictional character biography:...
, and disciple of Dormammu.
- Chthon - Elder God
The Elder Gods are fictional characters from the Marvel Comics universe. They were the first generation of Earth's gods, apparently inspired by Greek mythology and the Cthulhu Mythos.-Fictional group history:...
of black magic, written down in the DarkholdThe Darkhold, also known as The Book of Sins, is a fictional book in the Marvel Comics universe.-Publication history:The Darkhold was co-created by Gerry Conway and Mike Ploog. The Darkhold was first mentioned in Marvel Spotlight #3 but first shown in Marvel Spotlight #4...
.
- D'Spayre
D'Spayre is a fictional character in the Marvel Comics universe. He is a demon, and was one of the Fear Lords. He has been opposed by Spider-Man, the Scarlet Spider, Man-Thing, Cyclops, the Juggernaut, Doctor Strange, Cloak & Dagger, and the New Avengers. He first appeared in Marvel Team-Up v1 #68...
- A Fear Lord created by the Dweller-in-Darkness to embody despair.
- Dormammu
Dormammu is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Strange Tales #126 Dormammu is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Strange Tales #126 Dormammu is a...
- Strange's archenemyAn archenemy, archfoe, archvillain or archnemesis is the principal enemy of a character in a work of fiction, often described as the hero's worst enemy .- Etymology :The word archenemy or arch-enemy originated...
. A higher-dimensional energy being, and god-emperor of his own universe, seeking to turn all life and afterlife into a torture camp enacted to the glory of himself.
- Dracula
Dracula is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain appearing in books published by Marvel Comics. He is based on the vampire Count Dracula from the novel of the same name by author Bram Stoker, and is also influenced by Universal Studios' version of the character.-Publication history:A...
- Undead lord of the vampires.
- Dweller-in-Darkness
The Dweller-in-Darkness is a fictional character in the Marvel Comics universe. He is a demon, one of the Fear Lords, who has clashed with Doctor Strange.- Publication history :...
- Older than the universe and most powerful of the Fear Lords.
- In-Betweener
The In-Betweener is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Warlock #10 The In-Betweener is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Warlock #10 The...
- The balancing agent between the forces of Chaos and Order, wishing to rebel and ruthlessly rebalance the universe according to its wishes.
- Kaluu - Immortal archrival of the Ancient One, and the greatest human master of dark magic.
- Lilith
Lilith is the name of two fictional American comic book characters owned by Marvel Comics. Both characters exist in the Marvel Universe.The first of these two to appear was Lilith, the daughter of Dracula. Like her father, she is also a vampire, although her powers and weaknesses differ from most...
- An ancient demon connected to ancient Atlantis, and mother of the LilinLilin or lilim are demonic legendary creatures in Akkadian mythology and shedim in Jewish folklore.-Etymology:The following is disputed:* The masculine of lili is lilu...
.
- Mephisto
Mephisto is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appears in Silver Surfer #3 and was created by Stan Lee and John Buscema, loosely modeled on Mephistopheles - a character from the Faust legend.Debuting in the Silver Age of comic books,...
- One of the most powerful Hell-lords.
- Nightmare
Nightmare is a fictional character, a supernatural being who has appeared in many Marvel Comics stories, most commonly as one of Doctor Strange and Ghost Rider's major enemies.-Publication history:...
- A fear lord who rules the plagued dreams of all humans, and one of Strange's greatest enemies.
- Nox - One of the fear lords.
- Satannish
Satannish is a fictional character appearing in the Marvel Comics universe.-Fictional character biography:Satannish is a very powerful extra-dimensional demon who has clashed with Doctor Strange. Satannish is known for granting mortals mystical power in exchange for their souls...
- One of the most powerful Hell-lords, created by Dormammu billions of years ago.
- Set - Elder God
The Elder Gods are fictional characters from the Marvel Comics universe. They were the first generation of Earth's gods, apparently inspired by Greek mythology and the Cthulhu Mythos.-Fictional group history:...
of chaos, and master of the Serpent CrownThe Serpent Crown is a fictional mystical power object which has appeared in various comic book series published by Marvel Comics. It exists within Marvel's main shared universe...
.
- Shuma-Gorath
Shuma-Gorath is a fictional character created by Robert E. Howard, best known for his later interpretations as a demonic enemy of Doctor Strange in Marvel Comics publications. He is also well known for being an unconventional playable character in the Marvel Super Heroes and Marvel vs. Capcom video...
- One of the greatest undying many-angled ones. An ancient force older than time, lord of chaos, and a massive universal threat. Responsible for killing Strange's mentor, the Ancient One.
- Silver Dagger
Silver Dagger is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.-Fictional character biography:Silver Dagger was a former criminal who was also a former Cardinal in the Catholic Church. He was driven mad by reading the Darkhold in the form of the Shiatra Book of the Damned...
- A former Cardinal in the Catholic Church, who went insane after reading the DarkholdThe Darkhold, also known as The Book of Sins, is a fictional book in the Marvel Comics universe.-Publication history:The Darkhold was co-created by Gerry Conway and Mike Ploog. The Darkhold was first mentioned in Marvel Spotlight #3 but first shown in Marvel Spotlight #4...
, and turned into a fanatic witch-hunter, believing them an affront to God.
- Umar
Umar is a fictional character who resides in the "Dark Dimension" of the Marvel Comics multiverse. She is a Faltine, but is trapped in human form. Although she is a sorceress and has vast magical powers, she is still second to her brother Dormammu...
- Sister of Dormammu. An entity motivated by hedonism, sadism, and thirst for power.
- Urthona
Urthona is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe.-Fictional character biography:Urthona is an extra-dimensional sorcerer from another planet. He sought to become Sorcerer Supreme of the entire universe, and targeted Doctor Strange. Urthona gained possession of half of Topaz's soul, which...
- An alien sorcerer that sought to usurp Strange's power and position.
- Xandu - A sorcerer seeking power through the Wand of Watoomb
The Wand of Watoomb is a fictional artifact that appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. The Wand first appears in The Amazing Spider-Man Annual #2 and was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.-Publication history:...
.
- Yandroth - The Scientist Supreme of his universe, pitting the combination of his technology and sorcerous knowledge against Strange's magic.
- Zom
Zom is a fictional character appearing in the Marvel Comics universe. He is a gigantic semi-humanoid demon who has clashed with Doctor Strange.-Publication history:...
- The most powerful demon in existence, beyond even Eternity'sEternity is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by scripter-editor Stan Lee and artist-plotter Steve Ditko, the character is first mentioned in Strange Tales #134 and first appears in Strange Tales #138 Eternity is a fictional character that...
ability to defeat alone.
Other versions
The character has starred in several
alternate universeA parallel universe or alternative reality is a hypothetical self-contained separate reality coexisting with one's own. A specific group of parallel universes is called a "multiverse", although this term can also be used to describe the possible parallel universes that constitute reality...
titles. In the miniseries
Marvel 1602Marvel 1602 is an eight-issue comic book limited series published in 2003 by Marvel Comics. The limited series was written by Neil Gaiman, penciled by Andy Kubert, and digitally painted by Richard Isanove; Scott McKowen illustrated the distinctive scratchboard covers...
#1-8 (Nov. 2003 - June 2004), Sir Stephen Strange is both the court
physicianA physician is a health care provider who practices the profession of medicine, which is concerned with promoting, maintaining or restoring human health through the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, injury and other physical and mental impairments...
and
magicianA magician, mage, sorcerer, sorceress, wizard, enchanter, enchantress, thaumaturge or a person known under one of many other possible terms is someone who uses or practices magic that derives from supernatural or occult sources...
to
Queen Elizabeth IElizabeth I was queen regnant of England and Ireland from 17 November 1558 until her death. Sometimes called The Virgin Queen, Gloriana, or Good Queen Bess, Elizabeth was the fifth and last monarch of the Tudor dynasty...
. The title
Spider-Man 2099Spider-Man 2099 is a fictional comic book superhero, created by Peter David and Rick Leonardi in 1992 for Marvel Comics' Marvel 2099 line. His secret alter ego is Miguel O'Hara, a brilliant geneticist living in New York in the year 2099 A.D...
introduces a female version of Strange who shares her body with a
demoncall - 1347 531 7769 for more infoIn Ancient Near Eastern religions as well as in the Abrahamic traditions, including ancient and medieval Christian demonology, a demon is considered an "unclean spirit" which may cause demonic possession, to be addressed with an act of exorcism...
in issue #33 (July 1995). The miniseries
StrangeStrange is a six part American comic book limited series published by Marvel Comics under their Marvel Knights imprint.Written by J. Michael Straczynski and Samm Barnes, with artwork by Brandon Peterson, Strange is a re-imagining of Doctor Strange's origin.-Synopsis:While in Tibet, a medical...
#1-6 (Nov. 2004 – April 2005), written by
J. Michael StraczynskiJoseph Michael Straczynski , known professionally as J. Michael Straczynski and informally as Joe Straczynski or JMS, is an American writer and television producer. He works in films, television series, novels, short stories, comic books, and radio dramas. He is a playwright, a former journalist,...
and
Samm BarnesSara "Samm" Barnes is a television and comics writer, as well as a television producer.-Biography:Though born in Great Britain to Michael and Bridget Barnes, Barnes was raised in Canada, first in Ottawa, then Toronto and finally Vancouver....
, with artwork by
Brandon PetersonBrandon Peterson is an American comic book writer and artist. Born and raised in Wisconsin on October 14, 1969. Brandon Peterson is known for his hyper detailed artwork and intricate line work...
, reimagined the character's origin, allies and enemies in a contemporary setting.
In the miniseries
Marvel ZombiesMarvel Zombies is a five-issue limited series published from December 2005 to April 2006 by Marvel Comics. The series was written by Robert Kirkman with art by Sean Phillips and covers by Arthur Suydam. It was the first series in the Marvel Zombies series of related stories...
#1-5 (Feb. – June 2006), Strange is infected with a
zombieZombie is a term used to denote an animated corpse brought back to life by mystical means such as witchcraft. The term is often figuratively applied to describe a hypnotized person bereft of consciousness and self-awareness, yet ambulant and able to respond to surrounding stimuli...
virus along with many other heroes. He reappears in the second sequel,
Marvel Zombies 3Marvel Zombies 3 is a four-issue comic book limited series published by Marvel Comics beginning in October 2008. It is part of the Marvel Zombies series. The series is written by Fred Van Lente, penciled by Kev Walker, with covers by Greg Land.-Plot:...
#1-4 (Dec. 2008 – March 2009)
In the alternate future universe of the Marvel
imprintIn the publishing industry, an imprint can mean several different things:* As a piece of bibliographic information about a book, it refers to the name and address of the book's publisher and its date of publication as given at the foot or on the verso of its title page.* It can mean a trade name...
MC2, Doctor Strange is no longer the Sorcerer Supreme, the title being passed to one Doc Magnus. Doctor Strange uses his remaining power to reform the superhero team the
DefendersThe Defenders is the name of a number of Marvel Comics superhero groups which are usually presented as a "non-team" of individualistic "outsiders," each known for following their own agendas...
in
A-Next #3 (Dec. 1998) and to fight the Norse god of mischief,
LokiLoki is a fictional character, a supervillain that appears in publications by Marvel Comics. He is the adoptive brother and archenemy of the superhero Thor. He is based on the being of the same name from Norse mythology...
,
Last Hero Standing #4 (Feb. 2005).
The
Ultimate MarvelUltimate Marvel is an imprint of comic books published by Marvel Comics, featuring reimagined and updated versions of the company's superhero characters, including Spider-Man, the X-Men, the Avengers, and the Fantastic Four. The imprint was launched in 2000 with the publication of the series...
title
Ultimate Marvel Team-UpUltimate Marvel Team-Up is a comic book series, published by Marvel Comics which ran for 16 issues, including a concluding Ultimate Spider-Man Super Special. It is set in one of Marvel's shared universes, the Ultimate Universe. The whole series starred Spider-Man teaming up with another superhero...
introduced a version of the character called "Stephen Strange, Jr.", the son of the original Doctor Strange, in
Ultimate Marvel Team-Up #12 (July 2002). The character was killed in battle by the Ultimate Marvel version of Dormammu in the miniseries
Ultimatum #1-5 (Jan.–Sept. 2009).
Two months before the debut of the sorcerer-hero Doctor Strange, Stan Lee (editor and story-plotter), Robert Bernstein (scripter, under the
pseudonymA pseudonym is a name that a person assumes for a particular purpose and that differs from his or her original orthonym...
"R. Berns"), and
Jack KirbyJack Kirby , born Jacob Kurtzberg, was an American comic book artist, writer and editor regarded by historians and fans as one of the major innovators and most influential creators in the comic book medium....
(artist) introduced a criminal scientist and
Ph.D.Doctor of Philosophy, abbreviated as Ph.D., PhD, D.Phil., or DPhil , in English-speaking countries, is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities...
with the same
surnameA surname is a name added to a given name and is part of a personal name. In many cases, a surname is a family name. Many dictionaries define "surname" as a synonym of "family name"...
(called "Carl Strange"). Making his sole appearance in the
Iron ManIron Man is a fictional character, a superhero in the . The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee, developed by scripter Larry Lieber, and designed by artists Don Heck and Jack Kirby, first appearing in Tales of Suspense #39 .A billionaire playboy, industrialist and ingenious engineer,...
story "The Stronghold of Dr. Strange" in
Tales of SuspenseTales of Suspense is the name of an American comic book series and two one-shot comics published by Marvel Comics. The first, which ran from 1959 to 1968, began as a science-fiction anthology that served as a showcase for such artists as Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko, and Don Heck, then featured...
#41 (May 1963), the character gained mental powers in a freak
lightningLightning is an atmospheric electrostatic discharge accompanied by thunder, which typically occurs during thunderstorms, and sometimes during volcanic eruptions or dust storms...
strike.
Collected editions
Various Doctor Strange stories have been collected into separate volumes.
Essential Marvel black-and-white
trade paperbacksIn comics, a trade paperback is a collection of stories originally published in comic books, reprinted in book format, usually capturing one story arc from a single title or a series of stories with a connected story arc or common theme from one or more titles...
:
- Doctor Strange Vol. 1 (1963–1968), collects Strange Tales #110-111, 114-168; December 2001, ISBN 0-7851-2316-4
- Doctor Strange Vol. 2 (1968–1974), collects Doctor Strange #169-178, 180-183; The Avengers #61; Sub-Mariner #22; The Incredible Hulk vol. 2, #126; Marvel Feature #1; Marvel Premiere #3-10, 12-14; December 2005, ISBN 0-7851-1668-0
- Doctor Strange Vol. 3 (1974–1978), collects Doctor Strange vol. 2, #1-29, Annual #1; The Tomb of Dracula #44-45; December 2007, ISBN 978-0785127338
- Doctor Strange Vol. 4 (1978–1981), collects Doctor Strange vol. 2, #30-56; Chamber of Chills #4; Man-Thing #4; June 2009, ISBN 978-0785130628
Full-color hardcover
Marvel MasterworksMarvel Masterworks are a American collection of hardcover and trade paperback comic book reprints published by Marvel Comics. They are printed in full color and feature various titles from the Golden Age, Pre-Code , Silver Age, and Bronze Age of comics.The collection started in 1987 with volumes...
volumes:
- Doctor Strange Vol. 1, collects Strange Tales #110-111, 114-141; September 2003, ISBN 0-7851-1180-8
- Doctor Strange Vol. 2, collects Strange Tales #142-168; September 2005, ISBN 0-7851-1737-7
- Doctor Strange Vol. 3, collects Doctor Strange #169-179; The Avengers #61; March 2007, ISBN 0-7851-2410-1
- Doctor Strange Vol. 4, collects Doctor Strange #180-183; Sub-Mariner #22; The Incredible Hulk vol. 2, #126; Marvel Feature #1; Marvel Premiere #3-8; January 2010, ISBN 978-0-7851-3495-4
Full-color
trade paperbacksIn comics, a trade paperback is a collection of stories originally published in comic books, reprinted in book format, usually capturing one story arc from a single title or a series of stories with a connected story arc or common theme from one or more titles...
:
- Doctor Strange: A Separate Reality, collects Marvel Premiere #9-10, 12-14; Doctor Strange vol. 2, #1-2, 4-5; June 2002, ISBN 0-7851-0836-X
- Doctor Strange: The Oath, collects Doctor Strange: The Oath #1-5; May 2007, ISBN 978-0-7851-2211-1
- Doctor Strange: Strange Tales, collects Strange Tales vol. 2, #1-19; October 2011, ISBN 978-0-7851-5549-2
External links