Comic Book Fantasy Warriors
In my last post on exploring female fantasy warriors I focused on the TV series Xena. Today, I follow up with a look at the femme fatales of the comic book world. Bear in mind, this list is exclusively looking at warrior women. So, I'm not doing a massive run-down on the power-laden pursuers of justice. My focus is geared more towards those who carry a sword and strength. Starting with...
Wonder Woman
The mightiest amazon of them all! Wonder Woman means many things to many people. To me, she represents strength and a dedication to her values. There's a reason why the live action film directed by Patty Jenkins was so successful. People were starved for a proper representation of a female superhero on the big screen for years. And not just any hero would do. They wanted a woman warrior who could hold her own in a fight. And where Linda Carter brought this badass to life on television years before, Gal Gadot stepped up to take on the iconic role. It was a memorable movie for sure. What makes Wonder Woman herself memorable are the qualities I already mentioned but also that she is a hero that can stand side-by side with the likes of Superman and no one questions it. Ask anyone for the name of a woman warrior and most times they'll name Wonder Woman.
Lady Thor
I love the Marvel comics version of Thor. The God of Thunder is the epitome of a strong superhero character. He started out that way in the films but then for some reason they watered him down into comic relief. So, when I heard Lady Thor was going to show up it reignited my interest. I was skeptical that Natalie Portman could pull it off but she surprised me. Proper credit to her for getting in the gym and packing on the muscle. I love to see it. Too many times they choose dancers and skinny model types to be the female superheroes. Meanwhile the men are getting yoked out! Muscles are sexy and women can wear them just as well as the men. But what I really like about Lady Thor is that she has a hint of Norse to her. I'm a big fan of the viking era and the smash-mouth style it represents. You can tell by the detail I put into my novel Vegas Valkyries. Wielding a massive hammer with a winged helmet instantly makes me stand-up and cheer!
Lady Sif
To be honest, I'm not that familiar with Lady Sif in the comics but on screen she was captivating. In fact, when they were casting for the new Wonder Woman, I thought Jamie Alexander should've gotten the part. Like the others already mentioned in this list, I liked seeing Sif run around with the all-boys group and keep up with her share of the ass-kicking. It would've been great to see more of her in the films but at least they brought her back for some proper closure.
Valkyrie
Once again Marvel comes out swinging with a badass warrior woman. Valkyrie is a representation of the Norse warrior maidens. The version in the film differs from her comic counterpart but they both contain the same spirit that makes her a formidable female fantasy warrior. She even becomes king!
So, did I miss anyone from the list? Let me know in the comments below and be sure to come back for the next installment on exploring fantasy warriors.
"Original Cyn" Cynthia Vespia writes fantasy novels with edge. This blog is dedicated to all things fantasy, writer wellness, and my author journey.
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