The Annotated Barbarian

  Analysis of Conan the Barbarian #4: The Tower of the Elephant This issue, adapted from Robert E. Howard’s original Conan short story, exemplifies several key themes central to Conan’s narrative and the sword-and-sorcery genre: the collision of barbarism and civilization, the hero's confrontation with the supernatural, and the pursuit of glory and riches. Below is a detailed breakdown of the text, analyzing its literary and thematic significance. 1. The Setting: The Thief City of Zamora The opening pages describe Arenjun as a decadent, chaotic city teeming with danger and vice, emblematic of the "civilization" that Conan both critiques and defies. The juxtaposition between the raucous revelry of the thieves’ den and the ethereal majesty of the Tower of the Elephant sets up a dichotomy of earthy human corruption versus lofty, otherworldly power. Imagery : The murky torches, shrill laughter, and gleaming tower contrast vividly, emphasizing Conan’s inevitable journey from ...

  1.  Dunlang Removing His Armor Why in the world did Dunlang remove the golden mail?! Dunlang removing his armor could be interpreted as an act of fatalistic resignation or honor. He may have felt that no physical protection could save him from the prophecy, choosing instead to meet his fate with dignity and vulnerability. It also underscores the futility of material defenses against the supernatural inevitability of death. 3. Why Borri Chooses Conan Borri, a supernatural being appears to Conan to tell him it is the time of the passing of kings and more. Perhaps this is because Conan is destined to become a king himself? Why does this deity choose to relay this to Conan? Especially since the gods of this time appear to be indifferent to men. Could it be that Conan simply possesses an awareness of the supernatural that others don't have? Is it because he percieves that Borri interacts with him? Borri’s choice to speak to Conan reflects Conan’s unique role in Howard’s mythos a...

  Thematic Elements, Symbols, and Themes in Issue #3: “The Twilight of the Grim Grey God” Themes The Passing of Ages and the End of Glory The issue centers around the fading grandeur of Hyperborea, once a mighty kingdom but now descending into barbarism. This theme mirrors Conan's personal struggle against forces larger than himself, symbolizing the inevitability of change and decay. Borri's ominous declaration, “Even the gods must die,” underscores the transient nature of all things, even divine entities. This theme ties into the broader Hyborian cycle, where civilizations rise and fall in endless succession. The Role of Fate and Prophecy Prophecies and visions play a significant role, with Borri foreshadowing doom and Eevin warning Dunlang of his imminent death. These elements suggest an inescapable destiny, a concept deeply rooted in both Hyborian mythos and broader sword-and-sorcery traditions. Borri’s proclamation to Conan that he will witness the “passing of kings—and mor...

This issue, The Twilight of the Grim Grey God , brims with thematic richness and character development, particularly regarding Conan's evolving journey and his interaction with the enigmatic deity, Borri. Let's break it down: Why is Conan singled out by Borri? Conan is portrayed as a unique, defiant figure, even in a world of warriors and kings. Borri’s interest in Conan seems to stem from several key traits: Fierce Individualism: Conan's refusal to submit—whether to captors, enemies, or fate—makes him an outlier in a world where many succumb to despair or subjugation. Symbol of Change: Borri foresees the "passing of kings," signaling an era of upheaval. Conan, a barbarian with no allegiance to existing power structures, embodies the raw, untamed force that could thrive in this coming chaos. Destined for Greatness: Borri’s cryptic guidance implies a broader destiny for Conan, one tied to the grander struggles between gods and mortals. Conan’s Evolution Across I...

The title Conan the Barbarian initially frames him as a wild and untamed figure, but the first two issues of the series quickly subvert expectations, revealing that Conan, despite his moniker, is far from the most barbaric character in the story. Here’s how the early issues challenge the title: 1. Conan’s Intelligence and Resourcefulness Conan often demonstrates tactical thinking, quick wit, and the ability to outsmart his foes, traits that contrast sharply with the raw brutality typically associated with "barbarian" stereotypes. In the first two issues, his actions often involve strategy and adaptability, whether in battle or navigating complex social dynamics. 2. Barbarism of Other Characters The supporting characters and enemies often embody the very savagery that the title implies. Raiders, warlords, and sorcerers are shown as far more ruthless and unprincipled, driven by greed, cruelty, or power. Conan, by comparison, exhibits a rough moral code. While he is no saint, h...

In issue #1, Conan a vision was shared in which Conan is crowned king. In issue #2, he doesn't remember who told him? How can he not remember? Conan's apparent lapse in memory regarding his vision of being crowned king could be explained in several ways, aligning with his character and the mystical elements often present in his stories: 1. Subconscious Suppression Conan, as a pragmatic warrior, might unconsciously downplay or suppress the memory of such a grand vision. The weight of destiny, especially one as monumental as kingship, could feel out of place with his self-image as a wandering adventurer. By attributing the prophecy to an anonymous source, he distances himself from its implications, treating it as just another tale rather than a certainty. 2. Mystical Blurring In worlds filled with magic and gods, visions and prophecies are often hazy and dreamlike. The memory of the vision might have faded, or mystical forces could obscure it to prevent Conan from focusing too mu...

In Conan the Barbarian: Lair of the Beast-Men , we see Conan kneeling over the corpse of a giant Beast-Man while traversing Aesgaard, only to be lured into an ambush by Moira, a mysterious woman. Captured by brutish ape-men, he is dragged to Brutheim, an underground kingdom where humans, known as "manlings," live enslaved. Befriending Kiord, the Chief Thrall, Conan learns of the hopelessness that pervades the enslaved people. Thrown into the arena as entertainment for the Beast-Men's king, Gha-Kree, Conan refuses to succumb. He kills a savage snow-lion in combat, inspiring Kiord and the manlings to revolt. The uprising spreads chaos, culminating in a battering ram smashing the arena's pillars. Though Kiord is slain by King Zha-Gorr, Conan avenges him and crowns Kiord "First among men," symbolizing the reclamation of humanity's dignity and strength from their oppressors. The rebellion marks the fall of the Beast-Men’s dominion and underscores Conan’s defi...

Several symbolic moments stand out in Conan the Barbarian #1, reflecting themes of destiny, power, and the balance between barbarism and civilization. Here’s an analysis of key symbolic elements: 1. The Star Stone Symbol of Cosmic Power: The Star Stone represents ultimate knowledge and power, holding the ability to reveal the past, future, and the cyclical nature of history. Duality of Knowledge: While it offers glimpses of destiny, it also leads to Sharkosh’s madness, symbolizing the dangers of seeking forbidden or overwhelming truths. Destruction as Freedom: When Conan destroys the Star Stone, it symbolizes his rejection of predestination, emphasizing his agency in forging his own path. 2. Visions of Conan’s Destiny Birth on the Battlefield: Conan’s origin during conflict symbolizes his lifelong connection to violence and survival. Future Kingship: His vision of ruling a Hyborian nation reflects his inherent potential and greatness, despite his current role as a mercenary. Cycle of C...

Conan the Barbarian issue #1 introduces the young, brash Cimmerian who will become a legend. The story features battles, sorcery, and hints of Conan's destiny. Conan is introduced as a youthful, yet formidable warrior, embodying both raw strength and cunning survival instincts. The story takes place in the Hyborean Age -- a mythical prehistoric era filled with warring kingdoms, ancient magic, and heroic adventures. Conan is drawn into a plot with two warring factions. As you read the issue, take note of his motivations and how he balances survival instincts with moments of compassion or strategy. He demonstrates brutality, but also honor. Does he adhere to a code? Or is he merely pragmatic?  Plot Summary  1. The Battle Begins Conan is introduced amid the chaos of war, fighting alongside the Aesir warriors against their Vanir foes in the cold expanse of Aesgaard. His skill as a fighter and sharp reflexes are on full display when he saves the life of Olav, the Aesir leader. This...