Henry Imler July 17th, 2008

I just finished up reading East of Antioch: Forces and Structures in the Development of Early Syriac Theology by H.J.W. Drijvers, which stresses the major players in the development of Syriac Christian theology were Marcion, Tatian, and Bardasisan and explains how the Acts of Thomas was an extension of the theology of Tatian, which explains why people skipped over it in the great Tatian/Marcion debates in Syrian Christianity in the fourth century.  (I only include that to show that I have been working today.)

As a break from the above, I glanced over Captain America 40, which was phenomenal.  I can’t wait to buy the series third volume (I have the omnibus and volumes one and two.).  The series has been pretty “believable:” for the Marvel universe and, as my cousin Henry likes to point out, it is more of a political/physiological thriller than your average comic book about space invasions or whatever.   They try as hard as they can to “ground” as much of the story as they can.  In addition to this, the series is illustrated with a more realistic tone as shown above than, say, what we see at the right.  I love Cap punching ole Hitler in the face as much as the next person, but I find the above artwork more visually appealing. 

Back to my point, as I am congratulating myself for not reading a silly, over-the-top comic series, such as the shot to the left, in which the attack only serves to make the Hulk madder and stronger.  One that makes it easy on the imagination; I remember look upon one the Red Skull’s co-conspirators, Dr. Zola, who is one of the most realistic villains in the history of sight:

Is he not realistic?  Furthermore, what the heck is going on up there?  From Wikipedia on Zola:

The most noticeable feat, however, Zola has performed upon himself. He has constructed a specially modified body which lacks a head. Instead, Zola’s face is located - via holographic projection - on his chest, and atop his shoulders is an ESP Box, a psychotronic device which he uses to exert his control over his monster creations. In a limited effect, the Box can also be used as an offensive weapon.

Beware the man in the box.

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