Top 10 Thor Comic Runs That Will Make You a True Believer

Thor comic book covers

Thor’s Runs Reign Supreme

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Thor, the Asgardian God of Thunder, has graced the Marvel Universe with some of its most epic and unforgettable runs. From Jason Aaron’s transformative take on the character to Dan Jurgens’ exploration of his mystical side, Thor has consistently delivered compelling narratives that have left an indelible mark on comic book history. In this article, we will delve into three of Thor’s most celebrated runs, examining the key elements that made them stand out and cemented their place as must-reads for any fan of the character or the Marvel Universe at large.

Jason Aaron’s run, which began in 2014, is widely regarded as one of the most significant in Thor’s history. Aaron introduced a fresh perspective on the character, exploring his relationship with his father Odin, his role as King of Asgard, and the complexities of his own godhood. Aaron’s writing is infused with a deep understanding of Norse mythology, which he weaves into his stories with masterful skill. The result is a rich and captivating tapestry that brings Thor’s world to life in a way that is both familiar and awe-inspiring.

Prior to Aaron’s run, Dan Jurgens helmed Thor from 2007 to 2012. Jurgens delved into the mystical aspects of Thor’s character, focusing on his connection to the mystical realm of Asgard and his role as a protector of the Nine Realms. Jurgens’ stories were often grounded in familiar Norse mythology, but he also introduced new elements and characters that expanded the Thor mythos in unexpected ways. His run is particularly notable for its stunning artwork, which brought Thor’s world to life in vibrant and dynamic detail.

The Mighty Thor: A Literary Legacy

The Mighty Thor: A Journey Through the Annals of Marvel Comics

The Mighty Thor, the Asgardian God of Thunder, has been a beloved character in Marvel Comics for over six decades. Since his debut in Journey into Mystery #83 (1962), Thor has starred in countless comic book series, miniseries, and graphic novels. Over the years, various talented writers and artists have contributed to the rich tapestry of Thor’s mythology, crafting storylines that have captivated readers and left an enduring mark on the comic book landscape.

From Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s groundbreaking introduction of the character to Jason Aaron’s epic “War of the Realms,” each era has brought its own unique flavor to the Thor mythos. Along the way, Thor has faced countless foes, forged unbreakable alliances, and grappled with the complexities of his dual nature as both a god and a man.

The following list highlights some of the most acclaimed Thor runs in English language, showcasing the diverse range of storytelling and artistic styles that have shaped the character’s legacy.

Stan Lee and Jack Kirby (Journey into Mystery #83-125)

Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s seminal run on Journey into Mystery introduced the world to Thor and established the character’s core mythology. Their stories delved into the cosmic realms of Asgard and Midgard, blending high-fantasy elements with thrilling action and humor. Kirby’s iconic artwork, with its bold lines and dynamic compositions, brought Thor’s world to life on the page.

Notable storylines from this era include “The Enchantress Saga,” which introduced Thor’s enigmatic love interest, and “The Ragnarok Cycle,” a sweeping epic that foreshadowed the eventual destruction and rebirth of Asgard.

Key Issues:

Journey into Mystery #83 (Thor’s first appearance)
Journey into Mystery #108 (The debut of the Enchantress)
Journey into Mystery #121-125 (The Ragnarok Cycle)

The Rebirth of a Thunder God: Jason Aaron’s Epic Run

Jason Aaron’s Impact on Thor

Jason Aaron’s tenure on the Thor series has been nothing short of transformative. His epic run has breathed new life into the character, revitalizing the mythology and introducing compelling new storylines. Aaron’s Thor is a complex and relatable figure, grappling with both his godly responsibilities and his own personal struggles. He has also expanded the Asgardian pantheon, introducing memorable characters like Gorr the God Butcher and Old King Thor.

Major Arcs and Achievements

Arc	Summary
Original Sin	Thor uncovers a hidden secret from the past that threatens to destroy Asgard.
The God Butcher	Thor confronts Gorr, a ruthless killer who seeks to eliminate all gods.
The Unworthy Thor	Thor is deemed unworthy by Mjolnir, forcing him to prove himself once again.
Ragnarok	Thor leads the Asgardians in a final battle against the forces of evil.

Aaron’s Thor has also had a significant impact on the Marvel Universe as a whole. His stories have explored the nature of power and responsibility, as well as the cyclical nature of life and death. Aaron’s run has been praised for its epic scale, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, solidifying Thor’s place as one of Marvel’s most iconic superheroes.

The Thor of Asgard: Exploring the God of Thunder’s Cosmic Roots

Thor: God of Thunder (2011-2014)

Under the pen of Jason Aaron, Thor’s journey takes a cosmic turn. Stripped of his title and hammer, Thor becomes an intergalactic traveler, encountering cosmic entities and exploring the vastness of the Nine Realms. This run delves into Thor’s deeper connection to the cosmos, revealing his role as the protector of the universe and the keeper of cosmic balance.

The Mighty Thor (2015-2018)

Following the events of “Original Sin,” Jane Foster takes up the mantle of Thor after Thor Odinson becomes unworthy. This run explores the themes of identity, power, and heroism through Jane’s transformation. It also delves into the cosmic implications of the War of the Realms, an epic battle that threatens to destroy all of reality.

Thor: God of War (2018-2019)

In this run, Thor returns to Asgard after his cosmic adventures, but the realm is in ruins. With Ragnarok approaching, Thor must confront his past and embrace his role as the God of War. Exploring the darker aspects of Thor’s character, it examines the consequences of unchecked violence and the weight of leadership in times of great adversity.

Thor Run	Writer	Years	Key Themes
Thor: God of Thunder	Jason Aaron	2011-2014	Cosmic identity, intergalactic travel, balance
The Mighty Thor	Jason Aaron, Jane Foster	2015-2018	Identity, power, heroism, cosmic impact
Thor: God of War	Jason Aaron	2018-2019	Darkness, violence, responsibility, leadership

Unworthy Thor: A Tale of Redemption and Redemption

When the Odinson proved unworthy of Mjolnir, it marked a pivotal turning point in Thor’s Marvel journey. Stripped of his powers and forced to don the mantle of the unworthy Thor, he embarked on a perilous path of redemption.

The Consequences of Unworthiness

Thor’s unworthiness had far-reaching consequences. He became a target for his enemies and an outcast among the gods. The enchantment on Mjolnir prevented him from wielding it, leaving him vulnerable and stripped of his divine abilities.

The Road to Redemption

Driven by guilt and a desire to regain his honor, Thor set out on a perilous quest for redemption. He faced formidable challenges, including battles with his brother Loki and the Enchantress, and confronted his own inner demons.

The God Butcher Saga (2012-2013)

Thor’s encounter with the God Butcher, Gorr, proved to be a pivotal moment in his redemption arc. Gorr, who sought vengeance against the gods for their indifference, forced Thor to confront the flaws in his own divine heritage. Through the God Butcher Saga, Thor learned the importance of empathy and compassion, and began to question his former self-centered ways.

Comic Title	Issue Number	Writer	Artist
Thor: God of Thunder	1-25	Jason Aaron	Esad Ribic
Thor	1-8	Jason Aaron	Russell Dauterman
The Mighty Thor	1-12	Jason Aaron	Russell Dauterman

The Worthy One Returns

After a harrowing journey, Thor ultimately proved his worthiness again. He confronted Gorr, defeated the God Butcher, and regained his connection to Mjolnir. His redemption was complete, and he returned as the noble and heroic Thor he had always been.

Jane Foster: The Mighty Thor

In 2014, writer Jason Aaron and artist Russell Dauterman launched a groundbreaking era for Thor by introducing Jane Foster as the Mighty Thor. This bold move resonated with fans and critics alike, earning multiple Eisner Awards and cementing Jane’s legacy as a formidable superhero in her own right.

After the original Thor, Odinson, becomes unworthy to wield Mjolnir, it finds its way to Jane Foster, a brilliant astrophysicist and cancer survivor. Jane’s transformation into the Mighty Thor not only grants her incredible power but also imbues her with a deep connection to the natural world.

As the Mighty Thor, Jane embarks on a series of epic adventures, facing off against formidable foes like Malekith and Mangog. Her journey explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.

One of the most iconic moments in Jane’s tenure as Thor occurs during “The God Quarry” storyline.

The God Quarry

In this arc, Jane descends into the depths of the God Quarry, a realm of unimaginable power. With each step, her physical form deteriorates, reflecting the devastating toll her transformation as Thor takes on her mortal body.

Issues	Synopsis
Thor: God of Thunder #22-25	Jane’s descent into the God Quarry and her battle with the corrupted gods
Thor: God of Thunder #26	Jane’s sacrifice and the revelation of her true worthiness

Despite the physical agony, Jane’s resolve remains unshaken. She confronts the corrupted gods and sacrifices herself to save the day. Her selfless act proves that her worthiness as Thor goes beyond her physical abilities.

Thor: The War of the Realms

A World-Shattering Conflict

Thor: The War of the Realms is a massive crossover event that pitted Thor and his allies against Malekith the Accursed and his army of dark elves. The war spanned multiple realms, from Asgard to Midgard, and featured a cast of thousands.

A Battle for the Ages

The War of the Realms was a brutal and bloody conflict. Thor and his allies faced overwhelming odds, but they refused to give up. The battle raged for months, and the fate of the realms hung in the balance.

A Triumph of Courage

In the end, Thor and his allies emerged victorious. They defeated Malekith and his army, and they saved the realms from destruction. The War of the Realms was a triumph of courage and determination, and it proved that even the darkest of times can be overcome.

The Aftermath of War

The War of the Realms left a lasting impact on the realms. Asgard was destroyed, and Thor was forced to rebuild his home. The war also left many傷亡healed. Thor and his allies mourned their losses, but they also knew that they had made a difference.

A New Beginning

The War of the Realms ended with a new beginning. Thor and his allies had saved the realms, and they were ready to face whatever the future held. The war had changed them, but it had also made them stronger. They were now more determined than ever to protect the realms from harm.

Notable Moments

Event	Significance
Thor’s Return to Asgard	Thor’s return to Asgard after his long exile marked a turning point in the war.
Loki’s Betrayal	Loki’s betrayal of Thor was a major setback, but it ultimately led to Thor’s victory.
The Death of Malekith	The death of Malekith marked the end of the war and the defeat of the dark elves.

The Immortal Thor: A Journey Through Time and Myth

The Silver Age: Epic Tales and Cosmic Renewal

The Silver Age, spanning from the 1960s to the 1970s, marked a resurgence of Thor in Marvel Comics. Under the pen of Stan Lee and the art of Jack Kirby, Thor embarked on cosmic adventures, facing off against threats from beyond Earth. This era introduced iconic characters like Sif and Balder, and expanded Thor’s powers and mythology.

The Bronze Age: Exploring the Human Side of Thor

The Bronze Age, from the 1970s to the 1980s, saw Thor become more introspective and relatable. Writers like Roy Thomas and Walt Simonson delved into Thor’s personal struggles and his relationships with mortals. This era also introduced the concept of “Unworthy Thor,” when Thor was temporarily stripped of his powers, leading to a profound journey of self-discovery.

The Modern Age: From Classic Reinventions to Cosmic Extravaganzas

The Modern Age, beginning in the 1990s, has witnessed Thor’s evolution through various iterations. J. Michael Straczynski’s run in the early 2000s provided a darker and more mature take on the character, while Jason Aaron’s Epic Thor series in the 2010s introduced new cosmic dimensions and expanded Thor’s family tree.

Marvel NOW!: A Return to Epic Storytelling

Marvel NOW!, launched in 2012, marked a return to Thor’s classic roots. Writer Jason Aaron and artist Russell Dauterman crafted a grand epic that drew inspiration from Norse mythology and introduced memorable villains like Malekith the Accursed. This era also saw the rise of Jane Foster as Thor, establishing her as a powerful heroine in her own right.

Rebirth: Redefining Thor’s Role in Modern Mythology

Rebirth, launched in 2016, continued Thor’s exploration of cosmic themes and introduced new characters like Volstagg and Sif. Writer Donny Cates and artist Nic Klein brought a unique blend of horror and wonder to the series, pushing Thor’s powers and mythology to new heights.

War of the Realms: An Epic Clash of Gods and Mortals

War of the Realms, an event series published in 2019, brought together Thor and his allies in an epic battle against the forces of Malekith. Writer Jason Aaron crafted a sprawling narrative that drew inspiration from Norse mythology and Marvel’s cosmic lore, showcasing Thor’s unwavering determination and leadership.

The Future of Thor: Endless Possibilities

The future of Thor remains full of potential. With the introduction of new characters, cosmic threats, and mythological influences, the God of Thunder continues to defy time and stand as a symbol of heroism and enduring power. His legacy is sure to inspire future generations of readers and creators.

The Mighty Thor by Walt Simonson: A Masterpiece of Fantasy

8. The Epic Enchantments of Skurge

Walt Simonson’s “Thor” run is renowned for its unforgettable characters, and Skurge, the Executioner, is a shining example. In issue #364, Simonson crafted a tragic and heroic tale that transformed Skurge from a menacing foe to a beloved figure. Asgard is under siege by the Mangog, an unstoppable behemoth, and it seems like all hope is lost. Skurge, consumed by guilt and longing for redemption, steps forward.

He confronts the Mangog, wielding his trusty battle-ax, Gjallerhorn. In a moment of defiance, Skurge unleashes a powerful enchantment that binds the Mangog and sacrifices himself in the process. Thor is stunned, Marvel readers worldwide were moved, and Skurge was immortalized as a true hero, proving that even the darkest of souls can find redemption through the most extraordinary of sacrifices.

To further highlight the epic grandeur of Skurge’s enchantments, here’s a summary of the key moments:

Enchantments	Effects
“Be strong, then, Asgard’s warriors, for thus shall you be strong even unto the passing of the years.”	Bolsters the courage and strength of Asgardian warriors, even as they age and face adversity.
“To friend and foe alike, our power will be felt, and they shall remember Skurge, the Executioner.”	Inscribes Skurge’s name into the collective memory of Asgard, ensuring his legacy will be remembered for generations.
“My curse eternal is to live again, unendingly reborn to fight by your side, Asgard’s warriors.”	Binds Skurge to the Asgardian afterlife, where he will eternally reincarnate to defend Asgard alongside its valiant heroes.

Thor: The God of Thunder Returns

Thor, the mighty Norse god of thunder, is back in an epic return to the comic book realm. With his trusty hammer Mjolnir in hand, he embarks on a journey filled with heroic feats, cosmic battles, and personal struggles.

9. Thor: God of War (2018)

In Jason Aaron’s “Thor: God of War” run, Thor takes on the mantle of the War Thor, becoming both a warrior and a strategist. The series delves into Thor’s struggles with his newfound responsibilities and his evolving relationship with the Asgardians. It also introduces iconic characters like Beta Ray Bill and the God of Bombs.

Key Features	Creative Team
Epic cosmic battles	Writer: Jason Aaron
Thor’s warrior evolution	Artist: Russell Dauterman
Introduction of Beta Ray Bill	Cover Artist: Esad Ribić

Aaron’s “God of War” run is a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of Thor’s character, showcasing his strength, vulnerability, and the complex nature of being a god in a changing universe.

Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe: From Thunder to Infinity

1. Thor (2011)

Thor’s origin story explores the thunder god’s banishment from Asgard and his journey of redemption on Earth. Chris Hemsworth’s portrayal of Thor as a powerful but arrogant warrior sets the foundation for his character’s growth.

2. The Avengers (2012)

Thor joins forces with Earth’s mightiest heroes to battle Loki’s invasion. Hemsworth’s charismatic performance highlights Thor’s leadership and determination.

3. Thor: The Dark World (2013)

Asgard is threatened by an ancient darkness, and Thor must confront his past and personal demons. Hemsworth delivers a more nuanced performance, showcasing Thor’s vulnerability.

4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Thor aids the Avengers in their battle against Ultron, a sentient robot. Hemsworth’s portrayal of Thor’s strength and determination is complemented by his vulnerability in his personal life.

5. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Thor’s comedic side shines in this cosmic adventure, as he teams up with the Hulk and Valkyrie. Hemsworth’s comedic timing and chemistry with his co-stars elevates the film.

6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

Thor undergoes a dramatic transformation as he confronts Thanos and the Infinity Stones. Hemsworth’s intense performance captures Thor’s grief, determination, and ultimate sacrifice.

7. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Thor emerges from retirement to aid in the fight against Thanos. Hemsworth delivers a poignant performance that explores Thor’s journey of redemption and acceptance.

8. Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)

Thor teams up with Valkyrie and Jane Foster, who has become the Mighty Thor. Hemsworth’s portrayal of Thor’s whimsical and introspective nature adds depth to the character.

9. What If…? (2021)

The animated series explores alternate timelines, including one where Thor becomes a party-loving frat boy. Hemsworth’s comedic performance highlights the character’s versatility.

10. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

Thor joins the Guardians of the Galaxy on their cosmic adventures. Hemsworth’s camaraderie with the other actors creates a dynamic and enjoyable ensemble.

Movie	Year	Rotten Tomatoes Score
Thor	2011	77%
Thor: The Dark World	2013	66%
Thor: Ragnarok	2017	93%
Thor: Love and Thunder	2022	64%

The Best Thor Runs: An Argument for Jason Aaron’s Epic

When it comes to Thor, there are few runs that can rival the epic scope and grandeur of Jason Aaron’s tenure on the title. Beginning with “Thor: God of Thunder” in 2012, Aaron embarked on a journey that reshaped the character and his place in the Marvel Universe.

Aaron’s run is characterized by its sweeping ambition, tackling themes of mortality, legacy, and the struggle between chaos and order. He introduced new characters, such as the enigmatic Roxxon Corporation and the enigmatic Gorr the God Butcher, who tested Thor’s limits like never before.

What sets Aaron’s run apart is its willingness to deconstruct Thor, stripping him of his hammer Mjolnir and his connection to Asgard. This forced the character to confront his own identity and purpose, leading to a profound and transformative arc.

The run also features stunning artwork from artists such as Esad Ribić and Russell Dauterman, whose panels capture the cosmic grandeur and emotional depth of Aaron’s story. The culmination of Aaron’s run in “Thor: The Mighty Thor” is a fitting end to an era, leaving a lasting legacy on the character and the Marvel Universe.