Doctor Strange is a
fictional characterA character is the representation of a person in a narrative or dramatic work of art . Derived from the ancient Greek word kharaktêr through its Latin transcription character, the earliest use in English, in this sense, dates from the Restoration, although it became widely used after its...
that appears in publications published by
Marvel ComicsMarvel Publishing, Inc., a company doing business as Marvel Comics, produces American comic books and related media. It forms a subsidiary of Marvel Entertainment, Inc....
. The character was co-created by writer
Stan LeeStan Lee is an American comic book writer, editor, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics....
and artist
Steve DitkoStephen J. Ditko is an American comic book artist and writer best known as the co-creator of the Marvel Comics heroes Spider-Man and Doctor Strange....
and first appeared in
Strange TalesStrange Tales was the name of several comic book anthology series that have been 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...
#110 (July 1963).
Debuting in the
Silver Age of comic booksThe 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 the interregnum the Atomic Age, the Silver Age is considered to cover the period from...
, the character has featured in several self-titled series and Marvel-endorsed products including arcade and video games; animated television series and a
direct-to-DVDA film that is released direct-to-video is one which has been released to the public on home video formats before or without being released in movie theaters or broadcast on television...
film and merchandise such as trading cards.
1960s
The character debuted in
Strange Tales #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 the following issue and then #114 before co-creators
Stan LeeStan Lee is an American comic book writer, editor, and the former president and chairman of Marvel Comics....
and
Steve DitkoStephen J. Ditko is an American comic book artist and writer best known as the co-creator of the Marvel Comics heroes Spider-Man and Doctor Strange....
gave his
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....
in #115 (Dec. 1963). In that eight-page tale, Strange is established as a world-renowned if selfish
neurosurgeonNeurosurgery is the surgery discipline focused on treating the central nervous system, peripheral nervous systems and spinal column diseases amenable to surgical intervention....
, until a car accident damages his hands and prevents him from conducting surgery. Learning of a hermit called 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:...
who might cure his condition, Strange finds the man in the
HimalayasThe Himalaya Range or Himalayas for short , meaning "abode of snow", is a mountain range in Asia, separating the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau...
. After Strange selflessly tries to thwart a traitorous disciple (
Baron MordoBaron Mordo is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain published by Marvel Comics and appearing as an enemy of Doctor Strange...
), the Ancient One teaches Strange the mystic arts.
Steve 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...
; and his enemies
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:...
;
Baron MordoBaron Mordo is a fictional character, a comic book supervillain published by Marvel Comics and appearing as an enemy of Doctor Strange...
; and
DormammuDormammu is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Strange Tales #126 , and was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko....
. Ditko also visualized the cosmic entity
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...
, a sometime ally of Strange.
These stories revealed that Strange uses 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...
;
Eye of AgamottoThe Eye of Agamotto is a fictional mystical item in the Marvel Comics universe. It is the name commonly given to Doctor Strange's amulet, though the Eye actually resides within the amulet and is released from time to time. The Eye itself gets its name from Agamotto, a powerful mystic being who...
;
Book of the VishantiThe Book of the Vishanti is a fictional book 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 Earth of...
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...
. 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) appears in many Doctor Strange stories. Strange's personal servant,
WongWong is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe. He is the sidekick 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 that Wong stems...
, guards the residence in his absence.
In keeping with Lee's emphasis on continuity, Strange was also quickly established as part of the Marvel Universe, guest starring in a
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 naturalism in the medium...
story and encountering the
NorseNorse, North Germanic, or Scandinavian mythology comprises the myths of North Germanic pre-Christian religion.Most of the written sources for Norse mythology were assembled in medieval Iceland in Old Norse, notably as the Edda....
god Loki, foster brother of
ThorThor is a fictional character that appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. The character first appears in Journey into Mystery #83 and was created by writer-editor Stan Lee; scripter Larry Lieber and artist/co-plotter Jack Kirby....
.
The series continued with writer
Roy ThomasRoy Thomas is a 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...
and artists
Marie SeverinMarie Severin is an American comic book artist and colorist best known for her work for Marvel Comics and the 1950s' EC Comics....
and
Herb TrimpeHerbert W. "Herb" Trimpe is an American comic book artist and occasional writer, best known for his work on The Incredible Hulk and as the first artist to draw for publication the character Wolverine, who later became a breakout star of The X-Men.-Early life and career:Herb Trimpe was raised in...
creating 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 is a virtually omnipotent entity...
, as well as the sister of Dormammu,
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...
. The title, however, had been flagging as Strange encountered ever stranger one-off foes such as Nebulos and Voltorg. After issue #168 (May 1968), the Nick Fury feature was spun off into its own series, and
Strange Tales was retitled
Doctor Strange; the title feature, still written by Thomas and now penciled by
Gene ColanEugene "Gene" Colan is an American comic book artist.Best known as one of Marvel Comics' most significant artists, whose 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...
, was expanded to 20 pages.
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 and
Spider-ManSpider-Man is a fictional Marvel Comics superhero. The character was created by writer and editor Stan Lee and artist and co-plotter Steve Ditko. He first appeared in Amazing Fantasy #15...
, and battled the
X-MenX-Men is a superhero team in the . They were created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, and first appeared in The X-Men #1 . Under a cloud of increasing anti-mutant sentiment, Professor Xavier creates a haven at his Westchester mansion to train young mutants to use their powers for the...
foe the
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-writer Jack Kirby....
. The changes were unsuccessful and the title was canceled with issue #183 (Nov. 1969). The cancellation was abrupt (there was a "Next Issue" blurb in the last issue), and outstanding storylines were resolved in the titles
Prince Namor, the Sub-Mariner #22 (Feb. 1970) and
The Incredible Hulk vol. 2, #126 (April 1970).
1970s
Strange's next appearance was in the first three issues of showcase title
Marvel FeatureMarvel Feature was the name of two comic book series published by Marvel Comics in the 1970s.-1971 series:The first series was a superhero comic that was published for twelve issues, at irregular intervals from December 1971 until November 1973. The lead story in Marvel Feature #1, written by Roy...
, appearing in both the main storyline detailing the formation of superhero "non-team" the
DefendersThe Defenders is a name of a number of Marvel Comics superhero groups — usually presented as a "non-team" of individualistic "outsiders" each known for following their own agendas — that usually battles mystic and supernatural threats....
, and the related back-up story. The character was showcased in the title
Marvel Premiere with one story marking the debut of another of Strange's recurring foes, the entity
Shuma-GorathShuma-Gorath is a fictional character created by Robert E. Howard, but better known for its later interpretations as a demon and Lord of Chaos appearing in the Marvel Universe. It is also well known for being a playable character in the Marvel Super Heroes video game, and made subsequent...
. To stop Shuma-Gorath entering reality, Strange is forced to shut down the Ancient One's mind, which causes his physical death. The Ancient One, however, assures Strange this was a necessary sacrifice and his soul merges with the cosmic entity Eternity. Strange then assumes 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...
.
1980s - 1990s
The character's adventures continued in a second ongoing series,
Doctor Strange: Master of the Mystic Arts, which ran for 81 issues (June 1974 - Feb. 1987). During this period Strange also meets allies
TopazTopaz is a fictional character, a sorceress in the Marvel Comics universe. She debuted in Werewolf By Night v1. #13 .-Fictional character biography:...
and
RintrahRintrah is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe. Rintrah is an other-dimensional being with a resemblance to the mythological minotaur; something like a green-furred horned ox with humanoid hands and walks upright on his hind feet....
. Following the title's cancellation, the character's adventures continued in a second volume of
Strange Tales, which was again published in the "split book" format, and shared with street heroes
Cloak and DaggerCloak and Dagger, whose real names are Tyrone "Ty" Johnson and Tandy Bowen respectively, are a fictional comic book superhero duo in the Marvel Comics universe. They were created by writer William "Bill" Mantlo and designed by artist Edward Hannigan.-Publication history:Cloak and Dagger first...
. The title ran for nineteen issues.
Strange again featured in another self-titled series;
Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme. The initial creative team was writer
Peter B. GillisPeter B. Gillis is a comic book writer who was quite prolific at Marvel Comics and First Comics in the mid-1980s.-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 miniseries Ghostdancing, the final story arc of Peter Milligan's...
&
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 was written as being on the defensive from the first issue, battling a host of
supernaturalThe term supernatural or supranatural pertains to an order of existence beyond the scientifically visible universe. Religious miracles are typically supernatural claims, as are spells and curses, divination, the belief that there is an afterlife for the dead, and innumerable others...
foes including Dormammu, demons
MephistoMephisto is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appears in Silver Surfer #3 Mephisto is a fictional character that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appears in Silver Surfer #3 Mephisto is a...
and
SatannishSatannish 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...
and encounters with the
Werewolf By NightWerewolf by Night is a fictional character, an anti-heroic werewolf in the Marvel Comics universe. The Werewolf by Night first appeared in Marvel Spotlight vol...
;
Ghost RiderGhost Rider is the name of several fictional supernatural antiheroes appearing in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Marvel had previously used the name for a Western character whose name was later changed to Night Rider and subsequently to Phantom Rider.The first supernatural Ghost Rider is...
;
Baron BloodBaron Blood is the name of several fictional characters that appear in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The original version first appears in Invaders #7 and was created by Roy Thomas and Frank Robbins. The second character first appears in Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme vol. 3, #10 and...
and Morbius the Living Vampire. One significant development was Strange's temporary loss of the title of "Sorcerer Supreme" 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...
, mystical entities that empowered Strange's spells. Despite this and other setbacks, Strange was triumphant and eventually restored to the title. The series ran for 90 issues (Nov. 1988-June 1996).
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 a one-shot publication called
Strange Tales.
The character features in several
limited seriesA limited series is a 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, with a series of
spontaneous combustionSpontaneous combustion may refer to:* Spontaneous combustion, the self-ignition of a mass, for example, a pile of oily rags.* Spontaneous Combustion , a 2007 album by Liquid Trio Experiment* Spontaneous Combustion , a 1990 film by Tobe Hooper...
s by criminals instigated by old foe Dormammu. Strange was the catalyst for the creation of a trio of witches in the self-titled
WitchesWitches is a supernatural comic book miniseries that was published by Marvel Comics in 2004. Plot by Bronwyn Carlton, scripts by Brian Walsh, and art by Mike Deodato and Will Conrad. Original editor: Lysa Hawkins...
mini-series and also appeared in the self-titled
StrangeStrange, in comics, may refer to:*Strange , a six-issue comic book limited series by Marvel Comics*Strange, a Marvel Comics character and one of two characters who together were known as the Strangers...
mini-series, written by
J. Michael StraczynskiJoseph Michael Straczynski , known professionally as J. Michael Straczynski and informally as Joe Straczynski or JMS, is an American writer/producer. He works in a variety of media, including films, television series, novels, short stories, comic books, and radio dramas...
and
Samm BarnesSara "Samm" Barnes is a television and comics writer, as well as a television producer. Her published comics work includes co-authoring the Doctor Strange miniseries, "Strange Beginnings and Endings" for Marvel Comics, as well The Spectacular Spider-Man...
, 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...
. The series reimagined the character's origin, allies and enemies in a contemporary setting. A second limited series,
Doctor Strange: The Oath, written by Brian K Vaughan and illustrated by
Marcos MartinMarcos Martín is a Spanish comic book artist who has illustrated Batgirl: Year One, Dr Strange: The Oath, Breach. He currently illustratesThe Amazing Spider-man. He has also drawn covers for Runaways.-References:...
, focused on Strange's duty as Sorcerer Supreme and the nature of his powers.
Doctor Strange also appeared in four graphic novels.
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 titled
The Order. Strange also featured in all three volumes of the title
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. The original series consisted of 150 issues, published from March 1972 through February 1985. The series featured Spider-Man in most of its...
and other one-off stories in titles
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...
;
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:...
and the
alternate universeParallel universe or alternative reality is a 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 physical reality...
title
What IfWhat 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...
. The character also featured in the first issue of the title
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....
, forming a team of anti-heroes in preparation for the return of vampires to the Marvel Universe.
2000s
Strange appears as a supporting character in pivotal stories in 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 nearly a...
retconned Marvel history and established that during the
Kree-Skrull War"Kree-Skrull War" is a story arc that was written by Roy Thomas and drawn by Sal Buscema, Neal Adams and John Buscema featuring the Avengers caught up in an intergalactic conflict between the Kree and the Skrulls. The story was originally published by Marvel Comics in The Avengers #89-97...
, several metahumans, including Strange, formed a secret council called the
IlluminatiThe Illuminati is a group of comic book superheroes who joined forces and secretly work behind the scenes in Marvel Comics' main shared universe. The group was formed very shortly after the Kree-Skrull War...
to deal with future threats to Earth.
Strange played a pivotal role at the conclusion of the
House of MHouse of M is an eight-issue comic book limited series and crossover storyline published by Marvel Comics in 2005. Written by Brian Michael Bendis, and illustrated by Olivier Coipel, its first issue debuted in June 2005, as a follow-up to the events of the Planet X and Avengers Disassembled...
miniseriesA miniseries , in a serial storytelling medium, is a production which tells a story in a pre-planned limited number of episodes. The exact number is open to interpretation; however, they are usually limited to fewer than a whole season. The term "miniseries" is generally a North American term...
, as courtesy of his magic several of the mutant
X-MenX-Men is a superhero team in the . They were created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, and first appeared in The X-Men #1 . Under a cloud of increasing anti-mutant sentiment, Professor Xavier creates a haven at his Westchester mansion to train young mutants to use their powers for the...
were able to retain their powers when reality was rewritten. The "
Civil War"Civil War" is a 2006-2007 Marvel Comics crossover event storyline built around a self titled seven-issue limited series written by Mark Millar, and penciled by Steve McNiven and which ran through various other titles published by Marvel at the time...
" storyline — involving the introduction of the Superhuman Registration Act and a split in the superhero community — found Strange opposed to mandatory registration. He leaves the Illuminati and goes into seclusion in the
ArcticThe Arctic is the region around the Earth's North Pole, opposite the Antarctic region around the South Pole. The Arctic includes the Arctic Ocean and parts of Canada, Greenland , Russia, the United States , Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland.The word Arctic comes from the Greek αρκτικός , "near...
until the issue is resolved.
The
New Avengers: Illuminati miniseriesA miniseries , in a serial storytelling medium, is a production which tells a story in a pre-planned limited number of episodes. The exact number is open to interpretation; however, they are usually limited to fewer than a whole season. The term "miniseries" is generally a North American term...
revealed that Strange and the Illuminati took proactive steps to avoid global threats by finding and isolating the
Infinity GemsThe Infinity Gems are six fictional gems that appear in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Originally referred to as Soul Gems, the six gems are sentient and can be used in unison to make the wielder omnipotent, and in complete control of the universe...
, with Strange taking possession of the Soul Gem (a condition being that the individuals hide the Gems and never reveal their location to other members). When Strange returns from the Arctic he secretly shelters the team the New Avengers, formed after the events of the
Civil War, in his residence and assists on several missions. Strange suffered a setback when his hands were broken during the events of the "
World War Hulk"World War Hulk" is a comic book crossover storyline that ran through a self titled limited series and various other titles published by Marvel Comics in 2007, featuring the Hulk....
" storyline, and he resorted to the use of
dark magicBlack magic or dark magic is a form of sorcery that draws on assumed malevolent powers. This type of magic would be invoked to kill, to steal, to injure, to cause misfortune or destruction, or for personal gain without regard to harmful consequences to others. As a term, "black magic" is normally...
to try and stop the Hulk.
Strange's use of dark magic becomes addictive, as he uses it again to repel an attack on his residence by the crime syndicate of the villain
HoodThe Hood is a fictional character, a supervillain in the Marvel Universe. Created by writer Brian K. Vaughan and artists Kyle Hotz and Eric Powell, the character first appeared in The Hood #1 .-Publication history:...
(who is in turn backed by Strange's foe Dormammu). After some reflection, Strange seeks out a successor Sorcerer Supreme, and considers 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 character that appears in comic 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. Created by writer Len Wein and artist Dave Cockrum, she first appeared in Giant-Size X-Men #1 ....
, and
Doctor DoomVictor von Doom is a fictional character that appears in publications published by Marvel Comics. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in Fantastic Four #5 ....
, while Dormammu attacks Earth in a bid to seize Strange's power. The Avengers aid Strange against Dormammu's minions, with the Eye of Agamotto choosing
Brother VoodooBrother Voodoo , later Doctor 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...
as Strange's successor.
Powers and abilities
Doctor Strange is a master magician and the holder of the title of "Sorcerer Supreme" for many years. The character can use magic to achieve a number of effects, such as energy projection;
teleportationTeleportation is supposed to be the transfer of matter from one point to another, more or less instantaneously, either by paranormal means or through technological means. Teleportation has been widely utilized in works of science fiction...
;
telepathyTelepathy is supposed to be the transfer of information on thoughts or feelings between individuals by means other than the five senses . The term was coined in 1882 by the classical scholar Fredric W. H...
;
astral projectionAstral projection is an esoteric interpretation of any form of out-of-body experience that assumes the existence of an "astral body" separate from the physical body and capable of travelling outside it...
and the creation of materials, such as food and water. Strange is capable of creating even planet-wide effects, such as a
protective shieldA force field, sometimes known as an energy shield, force shield, or deflector shield is a barrier, typically made of energy or charged particles, that protects a person, area or object from attacks or intrusions...
. When casting a spell the character is often written to be invoking the name of a mystical entity, such as one of the Vishanti (
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 was also schooled in the use of dark magic by one-time foe
KaluuKaluu is a fictional character in the Marvel Universe and first appeared in Strange Tales #147 . He was created by Stan Lee, Denny O'Neill and Bill Everett, and is a powerful practitioner of black magic.-Fictional character biography:...
, using it to destroy the entity
Shuma-GorathShuma-Gorath is a fictional character created by Robert E. Howard, but better known for its later interpretations as a demon and Lord of Chaos appearing in the Marvel Universe. It is also well known for being a playable character in the Marvel Super Heroes video game, and made subsequent...
. The use of this magic, however, is both addictive and corruptive and Kaluu had to
purgeIn history 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, but in some...
the magic from Strange before it could take full effect.
Previous Doctor Strange
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 fictitious name used by a person, or sometimes, a group.Pseudonyms are often used to hide an individual's real identity, as with writers' pen names, graffiti artists, resistance fighters' or terrorists' noms de guerre and computer hackers' handles. Actors, musicians, and other...
"R. Berns") and
Jack KirbyJacob Kurtzberg , better known by the pen name Jack Kirby, was an American comic book artist, writer and editor. Growing up poor in New York City, Kurtzberg entered the nascent comics industry in the 1930s. He drew various comic strips under different pseudonyms, ultimately settling on Jack Kirby...
(artist) introduced a criminal scientist and
Ph.D.Ph.D. or PHD may stand for:* Doctor of Philosophy, an academic degree* Ph.D. , a 1980s British group* Piled Higher and Deeper, a web comic strip* PhD: Phantasy Degree, a Korean comic series* Parisada Hindu Dharma, an Indonesian organization...
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; the family-name meaning first appeared in 1375. Many dictionaries define "surname" as a synonym of "family name". It is also known as a "last name". In some cultures, the surname may...
(called "Carl Strange"). Making his sole appearance as an early
Iron ManIron Man is a fictional character, a superhero that appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character first appeared in Tales of Suspense #39 , and was created by writer-editor Stan Lee, scripter Larry Lieber, and artists Don Heck and Jack Kirby.Born Anthony Edward "Tony" Stark, he...
foe, in the
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...
story, "The Stronghold of Dr. Strange", the character gained mental powers in a freak
lightningLightning is an atmospheric discharge of electricity accompanied by thunder, which typically occurs during thunderstorms, and sometimes during volcanic eruptions or dust storms...
strike.
1602
In the limited series
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...
, Sir Stephen Strange is both the court
physicianA physician — also known as medical practitioner, doctor of medicine, medical doctor, or simply doctor — practices the ancient profession of medicine, which is concerned with maintaining or restoring human health through the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disease or injury...
and
magicianA magician is a person skilled in the mysterious and hidden art of magic, the ability to attain objectives, acquire knowledge, or perform works of wonder using supernatural or nonrational means....
to
Queen Elizabeth IElizabeth I was Queen of England and Queen of 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...
.
Marvel 2099
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...
introduces a female version of Strange who shares her body with a
demonIn religion, folklore, and mythology a demon is a supernatural being that is generally described as a malevolent spirit. In Christian terms demons are generally understood as fallen angels, formerly of God. A demon is frequently depicted as a force that may be conjured and insecurely controlled...
.
Marvel Zombies
The character appears in the limited series
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...
and the third installment in the series,
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:...
. After being zombified, Strange is only capable of casting two spells.
Ultimate Doctor Strange
The
Ultimate MarvelUltimate Marvel is an imprint of comic books published by Marvel Comics, featuring reimagined and updated versions of the company's most popular superhero characters, including Iron Man, Spider-Man, the Hulk, Thor, Daredevil, the X-Men, the Avengers, and the Fantastic Four...
alternate universeParallel universe or alternative reality is a 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 physical reality...
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...
introduces a version of the character called "Stephen Strange Jr.", the son of the original Doctor Strange. The character is eventually killed in battle by the Ultimate version of Dormammu during the
UltimatumULTIMATUM is a fictional terrorist organization in the Marvel Comics universe. It was founded by the Flag-Smasher in his attempts to destroy nationalism...
storyline.
Series and mini-series
- Strange Tales #110-111 & 114-168 (July-Aug. 1963 & Nov. 1963-May 1968)
- Doctor Strange #169-183 (June 1968-Nov. 1969)
-
- Doctor Strange, also known as Doctor Strange: Master of the Mystic Arts #169-175; Dr. Strange #176-181; and Dr. Strange: Master of Black Magic #182-183
- Marvel Premiere #3-14 (July 1973-March 1974)
- Doctor Strange (vol. 2) #1-81 (June 1974 - Feb. 1987)
- Dr. Strange: Master of the Mystic Arts #1; Doctor Strange: Master of the Mystic Arts #2-50; and Doctor Strange #51-81 (Note: #30, 34, 36-37, 40, 42-46, 48 missing subtitle)
- Strange Tales #182-188 (Nov 1975-Nov 1976; reprints only)
- Dr. Strange Annual #1 (1976)
- Doctor Strange Classics #1-4 (March-June 1984; reprints only)
- Strange Tales (vol. 2) #1-19 (April 1987-Oct. 1988)
- Doctor Strange (vol. 3) #1-90 (Nov. 1988 - June 1996)
- Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme #1-4 and Dr. Strange: Sorcerer Supreme #5-90 (Note: Following issue #4, subtitle appears only sporadically)
- Dr. Strange: Sorcerer Supreme Annual #2-3 & Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme Annual #4 (1992-1994)
- Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme Special (1992)
- Secret Defenders (1993 series) #1-25 (March 1993-March 1995)
- Doctor Strange: The Flight of Bones #1 - 4 (Feb.- May 1999)
- Witches #1-4 (Aug.-Nov. 2004)
- Strange #1-6 (Nov. 2004-July 2005)
- X-Statix Presents Deadgirl #1-5 (Dec. 2005-April 2006)
- Doctor Strange: The Oath #1-5 (Oct. 2006-March 2007)
- Strange Vol. 2 #1-present (Nov. 2009 - Present)
One-shots and graphic novels
- Giant-Size Dr. Strange #1 (1975; reprints only)
- Doctor Strange Special Edition #1, also known as Dr. Strange/Silver Dagger Special Edition #1 (March 1983)
- Marvel Graphic Novel #23: Doctor Strange: Into Shamballa (1986 graphic novel)
- Doctor Strange and Doctor Doom: Triumph and Torment (1989 graphic novel)
- Doctor Strange & Ghost Rider Special #1 (April 1991; reprints only)
- Spider-Man / Dr. Strange: The Way To Dusty Death (no number; 1992)
- Dr. Strange vs. Dracula #1 (March 1994; reprints only)
- Dr. Strange: What is It that Disturbs You, Stephen? (no number; Oct. 1997)
- Custom: Lions Gate Dr. Strange #0 (prologue to the animated feature as well as four-page story by the "The Oath" team; came with the animated "Iron Man" DVD; Jan. 2007)
Collected editions
Various stories have been collected into separate
volumesIn 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...
.
Essential Marvel black and white softcovers:
- Doctor Strange (Vol. 1) (1963-1968) Strange Tales #110-111, 114-168 (2002). ISBN 0-7851-2316-4
- Doctor Strange (Vol. 2) (1968-1974) Doctor Strange #169-178, 180-183, Avengers (vol. 1) #61, Sub-Mariner #22, Hulk (vol. 1) #126, Marvel Feature #1, Marvel Premiere #3-10, 12-14. (2005) ISBN 0-7851-1668-0
- Doctor Strange (Vol. 3) (1974-1978) Doctor Strange #1-29, Annual #1, The Tomb of Dracula #44-45. (2007) ISBN 978-0785127338
- Doctor Strange (Vol. 4) (1978-1981) Doctor Strange #30-56, Chamber of Chills #4, Man-Thing #4 (2009). ISBN 978-0785130628
Full-color hardcover
Marvel MasterworksMarvel Masterworks is an American collection of hardcover and trade paperback, full-color comic book reprints published by Marvel Comics, featuring various series in chronological order....
volumes:
- Doctor Strange: Vol. 1 - Strange Tales #110-111, 114-141 (1992 & 2003). ISBN 0-7851-1180-8
- Doctor Strange: Vol. 2 - Strange Tales #142-168 (2005). ISBN 0-7851-1737-7
- Doctor Strange: Vol. 3 - Doctor Strange #169-179, Avengers (vol. 1) #61 (2007). ISBN 0-7851-2410-1
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...
collections:
- Doctor Strange: A Separate Reality - Marvel Premiere #9-10, 12-14, Dr. Strange (2nd series) #1-2, 4-5 (2002). ISBN 0-7851-0836-X
External links