The Mighty Thor #700
Jason Aaron (w), Various (a)
Marvel Comics
Liz says: Jason Aaron’s Thor has been a consistently great book, but every now and then he surpasses himself with an issue that just blows me away. Issue #700 is a reminder of what a fantastic storyteller he is, and the (thirteen!) different artists he works with on it all rise to the occasion.
The legacy issue #700 is about the nobility, grandeur, and tragedy of being a Thor. Aaron’s run has emphasized the number of ‘Thors’ that have existed before and introduced a few of his own. The most famous of these is Thor Odinson, who in this issue finds himself in the Nornkeep at the base of Yggdrasil, where the Dark Elf Malekith is preparing an attack on the Norns. The Norns (also known as the Fates) must be protected at all costs.
Meanwhile, we get a different take on Thor vs. Hulk when Jane comes across a raging Jennifer Walters. This was a wonderful subplot. Jennifer is suffering from post-traumatic stress and is out of control, unable to control her power. Thor, the only one strong enough to face her, tries to help her.
On a more lighthearted note, we get a Throg story! If you didn’t know that there’s a Thor who’s also a frog, you my friend are about to be in for a treat.
There are other subplots featuring Loki, Volstagg, and many more beloved characters. All of these stories intertwine and culminate to great effect. If you’re not reading Jason Aaron’s Thor, read this as a standalone. It will make you realize that you’ve been missing something special.