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Conan the Barbarian: The Sword and Sorcery Epic by Roy Thomas

Terence Nelson

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Published in Conan The Barbarian (1970 1993) #60 Roy Thomas

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Nestled within the realm of fantasy literature, Conan the Barbarian stands as an iconic creation that has captivated readers and audiences alike. His adventures, fueled by a relentless spirit and unmatched physical prowess, have transcended the pages of books to grace the silver screen and inspire countless works of art. At the helm of Conan's literary journey was the renowned writer Roy Thomas, whose contributions to the character's legacy are truly exceptional.

The Genesis of a Barbarian

Conan the Barbarian emerged from the vivid imagination of Robert E. Howard, a Texan writer who breathed life into the character in the 1930s. Howard's creation was a larger-than-life warrior, a product of a violent and unforgiving age. Conan's adventures were serialized in pulp magazines, thrilling readers with their tales of swordplay, sorcery, and indomitable spirit.

Conan The Barbarian (1970-1993) #60

by Roy Thomas

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	78630 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	19 pages

In the late 1960s, Marvel Comics acquired the rights to adapt Conan's adventures into comic book form. Roy Thomas, a rising star in the industry, was entrusted with the daunting task of bringing the barbarian to life on the printed page.

Roy Thomas's Conan: A Literary Masterpiece

Thomas approached the Conan project with a deep understanding and respect for the source material. He meticulously studied Howard's original stories, immersing himself in the character's world and mythology. Thomas's Conan comics were not mere adaptations; they were literary masterpieces that captured the spirit of Howard's creation while expanding upon its lore.

Thomas's Conan was a complex and multifaceted character. He was a formidable warrior, capable of wielding his sword with unmatched skill. But beneath his rugged exterior lay a keen intellect and a deep sense of honor. Thomas's writing delved into Conan's psyche, exploring his motivations, fears, and desires.

The world that Thomas created for Conan was as rich and vibrant as the character himself. The Cimmerian, Conan's homeland, was a harsh and unforgiving land, where survival demanded strength and cunning. Thomas populated this world with a cast of unforgettable characters, including the enigmatic wizard Thoth-Amon, the loyal Red Sonja, and the treacherous sorcerer Kulan Gath.

Conan's Impact on Popular Culture

Roy Thomas's Conan comics were an instant success, captivating readers with their thrilling adventures and compelling characters. The series quickly became one of Marvel's top sellers, inspiring numerous spin-offs and adaptations.

In 1982, Conan's popularity soared to new heights with the release of the film "Conan the Barbarian," starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film, directed by John Milius, was a faithful adaptation of Thomas's comics and captured the essence of Conan's character. Schwarzenegger's portrayal of the barbarian became iconic, further cementing Conan's status as a cultural phenomenon.

The Conan franchise has continued to thrive in the decades since Thomas's original comics. Numerous sequels, prequels, and spin-offs have been produced, keeping the barbarian's legacy alive. Conan has also been adapted into video games, toys, and other merchandise.

The Legacy of Roy Thomas

Roy Thomas's contributions to the Conan mythos are immeasurable. His comics not only captured the spirit of Robert E. Howard's original creation but also expanded upon it, creating a rich and enduring world that has captivated generations of readers. Thomas's Conan is a timeless character, an embodiment of strength, courage, and adventure.

Thomas's work on Conan earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Eisner Award for Best Writer. His legacy extends far beyond the pages of his comics, as he has inspired countless writers, artists, and filmmakers to create their own works of sword and sorcery.

Conan the Barbarian remains a beloved icon of popular culture, a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of the human spirit. And at the heart of this epic tale lies the masterful craftsmanship of Roy Thomas, whose words and imagination brought Conan to life and etched his name forever in the annals of fantasy literature.