The Incredible Hulk #234
(VERY FINE-/VERY FINE)
1ST APPEARANCE AS QUASAR (WENDELL ELVIS VAUGHN)
"The Incredible Hulk #234," released in April 1979, is an important issue in the Hulk series from Marvel Comics. This comic is notable for the first appearance of Quasar, though he appears under the name Marvel Man before later adopting the Quasar moniker.
Written by Roger Stern with artwork by Sal Buscema, this issue is part of a storyline where the Hulk faces off against a new and relatively unknown hero, Marvel Man. Marvel Man, whose real name is Wendell Vaughn, initially appears as a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent equipped with quantum bands that grant him incredible energy-manipulating powers. This encounter occurs as Vaughn is testing the limits of his newly acquired abilities.
The story revolves around the Hulk being misunderstood and pursued by the military and other law enforcement agencies, a common theme throughout the Hulk comics. Marvel Man, seeking to prove his worth as a hero, confronts the Hulk, leading to a significant battle between them. The encounter is both a physical and ideological clash, with Marvel Man trying to balance his duty to contain the Hulk with his realization of the Hulk’s tragic nature.
Sal Buscema’s artwork vividly captures the intensity and emotion of this confrontation, using dynamic action sequences and expressive character work that enhances the dramatic impact of the narrative.
"The Incredible Hulk #234" is a key issue that introduces a character who would go on to have a significant presence in the Marvel Universe as Quasar. It showcases early instances of Wendell Vaughn's heroism and sets the stage for his future development into a major cosmic hero.
