Irish Conflict in Comics in the 20th Century: Rebellion, Nazi Spies and The Troubles

This book is a unique catalogue of research, commentary, and discussion about Irish conflict and
the portrayals of Irish characters in comics.

In 1943, Marvel’s Namor fought alongside the I.R.A to defeat Nazi spies in ‘The Green Island Menace’ in Sub-Mariner #9. Even more surprising is a 1980s Spider-Man story featuring the I.R.A. resulting in a bomb threat against the Marvel New York offices, prompting their staff to evacuate onto the street.

The presence of Irish elements persists throughout comic book history. ‘Rookie’ in Red Ryder and ‘Minuteman’ in Master Comics also fought against Nazi Spies and infiltrators in Ireland during the Second World War. Discover Irish characters in a variety of historical portrayals, such as in Prince Valiant and The Thrilling Adventures of Robin Hood, as well as Eamon de Valera, Hero of Ireland.

In Ireland, Irish comics were produced to challenge the foreign imports in the 1950s. The Leprechaun, Sarsfields the Name, Sarsfields the Man, and Éire – Sean is Nua provided alternatives to the ‘avalanche of imported comic papers which are doing great harm to youth’.

American and European portrayals of Irish conflict expanded from the 1970s onward, mirroring contemporary interest and awareness of The Troubles occurring in Ireland, and this book examines these portrayals, speaking to the very strong and disappointing stories. It also considers the incredible underground works that came from Northern Ireland in the 1970s, such as The Hand by John Kindness, and then later seminal portrayals of the Troubles from Northern Ireland such as Troubled Souls and Holy Cross.

Looking at over 150 comic stories and over 300 individual comic books, this is an invaluable reference work for those interested in Ireland, Irish history, and comics.