This Conan the Barbarian #24 comic review examines Marvel Comics’ historic issue featuring the first full Red Sonja story. Published in March 1973, this comic represents Red Sonja’s second appearance and establishes the legendary partnership between Conan and the She-Devil with a Sword that would define both characters for decades.
- Title: Conan The Barbarian
- Issue: #24
- Volume: #1
- Publisher Marvel Comics
- Date: March 1973
- Written By: Roy Thomas
- Pencils: Barry Windsor-Smith
- Inks: Barry Windsor-Smith
- Colored: Barry Windsor-Smith
- Letterer: Art Simek
- Cover: Barry Windsor-Smith
First Full Red Sonja Story Significance
This Conan the Barbarian #24 comic review highlights the monumental importance of Red Sonja’s first complete story alongside Conan. While issue #23 introduced the character, this issue gave readers their first full-length adventure featuring both legendary warriors working together.
The first full story allowed Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith to fully develop Red Sonja’s personality and fighting style. Readers could finally see the character in extended action sequences and dialogue that established her as Conan’s equal in combat and cunning.
This issue demonstrated that Red Sonja could carry substantial story weight beyond her striking visual design. The full-length story proved the character’s lasting appeal and commercial viability, leading to her eventual solo series and media empire.
The comic established the dynamic between Conan and Red Sonja that would become one of fantasy comics’ most enduring partnerships. Their relationship combined romantic tension with mutual respect as warriors, creating compelling storytelling opportunities.
Second Appearance and Character Development
Red Sonja’s second appearance allowed for significant character development beyond her initial introduction. This issue expanded her backstory and motivations while showcasing her combat skills in extended battle sequences.
The full story format enabled Thomas to explore Red Sonja’s oath and the tragic events that shaped her into a warrior. This character depth elevated her from supporting character to co-protagonist worthy of her own adventures.
Windsor-Smith’s artwork brought Red Sonja to life through dynamic action sequences and expressive character moments. His detailed illustrations established visual storytelling elements that defined the character’s appearance for generations.
The issue demonstrated Red Sonja’s ability to hold her own against male warriors while maintaining her feminine identity. This balance created a unique character archetype that influenced countless female warriors in subsequent fantasy fiction.
Conan and Red Sonja Partnership Dynamics
This Conan the Barbarian #24 comic review reveals how Thomas crafted the relationship between these two legendary characters. Their partnership combined complementary fighting styles with opposing philosophical approaches to create compelling dramatic tension.
Conan’s brute strength and straightforward tactics contrasted with Red Sonja’s agility and strategic thinking. This combination made their joint adventures more dynamic and unpredictable than either character’s solo stories.
The romantic undertones between the characters added emotional complexity to their adventures. Thomas carefully balanced their attraction with Red Sonja’s oath, creating ongoing tension that enhanced story drama.
Their partnership established a template for future sword and sorcery team-ups. The success of their collaboration demonstrated that fantasy comics could support ensemble casts beyond single protagonist stories.
Collectible Value and Key Issue Status
The first full Red Sonja story creates significant collectible value for serious comic collectors. Second appearances combined with “first full story” status often command premium prices in the collector market.
This issue appeals to both Conan and Red Sonja collectors, creating dual demand streams that enhance market value. Collectors recognize this comic as essential for complete runs of either character’s key appearances.
Bronze Age Marvel comics featuring significant character development consistently appreciate in value. The combination of character importance and historical period makes this issue particularly attractive to vintage comic investors.
High-grade copies of this issue become increasingly rare due to the comic’s age and significance. The 1973 publication date means that mint condition copies require careful preservation and command substantial premiums.
Barry Windsor-Smith’s Artistic Excellence
Windsor-Smith’s artwork reaches new heights in this first full Red Sonja story. His detailed illustrations bring both characters to life through dynamic action sequences and expressive character moments.
The artist’s ability to differentiate between Conan and Red Sonja’s fighting styles through visual storytelling demonstrates his mastery of comic book illustration. Each character moves and fights with distinctive visual characteristics.
Windsor-Smith’s background designs create immersive fantasy environments that enhance the story’s epic scope. His attention to architectural details and natural settings establishes convincing fantasy worlds for the characters’ adventures.
The artist’s character design work establishes visual elements that defined both characters for decades. His interpretation of Red Sonja’s costume and weaponry became the definitive version for most subsequent artists.
Roy Thomas’s Story Structure and Pacing
This Conan the Barbarian #24 comic review showcases Thomas’s skill in crafting extended adventure narratives. The full-length story format allows for proper character development and complex plot structures.
Thomas balances action sequences with character moments to create emotionally engaging adventures. His pacing keeps readers invested while providing opportunities for both characters to demonstrate their unique abilities.
The writer’s dialogue captures the distinctive voices of both characters while maintaining the epic tone appropriate for fantasy adventure. His character interactions feel authentic and advance both plot and character development.
Thomas’s plot structure demonstrates understanding of what makes compelling sword and sorcery storytelling. The adventure combines personal stakes with larger conflicts that showcase both characters’ heroic qualities.
Historical Context and Cultural Impact
The first full Red Sonja story appeared during the height of the sword and sorcery revival in popular culture. This comic capitalized on growing interest in fantasy fiction while establishing new standards for the genre.
The issue’s success contributed to the expansion of fantasy comics beyond simple Conan adaptations. Publishers began recognizing the commercial potential of original fantasy characters and stories.
Red Sonja’s development from this story influenced the creation of numerous female warriors in comics, literature, and film. Her character template became a foundation for strong female characters in fantasy fiction.
The comic demonstrates how successful character partnerships can enhance both individual characters. The Conan and Red Sonja dynamic became one of comics’ most enduring collaborations.
Market Performance and Investment Potential
Market analysis shows consistent appreciation for this key Red Sonja issue. The combination of character significance and artistic excellence creates strong long-term investment potential.
Auction results demonstrate sustained collector interest across multiple generations. The issue’s dual appeal to both character’s fan bases ensures continued demand in the collectible market.
The comic’s Bronze Age vintage adds additional value for collectors focusing on 1970s Marvel Comics. This historical period represents a creative peak for the publisher’s fantasy titles.
Final Assessment and Recommendation
This Conan the Barbarian #24 comic review confirms this issue’s status as essential for serious comic collectors. The first full Red Sonja story combined with exceptional creative talent makes this comic a cornerstone of fantasy comic collecting.
The issue’s significance extends beyond simple collectible value to represent genuine comic book history. This story established character dynamics and storytelling approaches that influenced decades of fantasy comics.
Therefore, this comic comes highly recommended for Red Sonja collectors, Conan enthusiasts, Bronze Age Marvel fans, and anyone interested in the evolution of fantasy comics. This first full story represents a pivotal moment in comic book history.