N is for Namor

Namor, The Submariner #1 is written and drawn by John Byrne and has a cover date of April 1990 from Marvel Comics.

The story in this issue is broken up into 4 sections: 2 epilogues and 2 prologues.  In the first two epilogues, Byrne wraps up what has previously happened with Namor.  Believed dead, Namor is found by a Marine biologist, Dr. Alexander, and his daughter, Carrie.  Dr. Alexander uses a device of his own creation to clean Namor's blood and calm the Atlantean prince.

In the two prologues, Namor establishes a bond with the doctor and his daughter and vows to use the sunken treasure he has found over the years to fund his mission to clean up the world's ecosystem.  Next, we met Des and Margaret Marrs, two billionaire siblings who wield great corporate power.  They learn of Oracle, Inc (Namor's company) purchasing a rundown corporation for a ridiculous amount of cash and see this new company as a potential threat.

I really enjoyed the use of the epilogues and prologues in this story.  Byrne neatly wrapped up what had previously happened, and then used the prologues to give a taste of where the new series would be heading.  My only complaint about this issue is that we are never told why everyone thinks Namor is dead.  Even a simple editor's note referencing another comic book would have been nice.  John Byrne stayed on the series for 32 issues with the title making it all the way to number 62 before being cancelled.

Fan of Namor and/or John Byrne?  Leave your comments below!