The Justice Society Prepares to Confront Their Most Formidable Enemy Yet

Warning: contains spoilers for JSA #3!

The Justice Society stands on the brink of an epic confrontation with a formidable nemesis they have historically struggled to overcome. Since their debut during the Golden Age of comics, this iconic team has bested a plethora of villains. However, one malignant force has haunted them throughout their enduring legacy, and in the latest issue of JSA #3, they are compelled to face this sinister adversary once more—though this time, the outcome may not favor the heroes.

The Justice Society Faces Their Greatest Fear: Surtur

Hawkman finds himself ensnared by the Demons Three, who have formed a devastating alliance with Wotan, a longstanding adversary of the Justice Society. Wotan’s nefarious plan targets the power housed within the Tower of Fate, and he has enlisted the aid of Surtur, a threat that Hawkman knows all too well. As Wotan elaborates on his scheme, the scene shifts to reveal Surtur—bound yet seething with pent-up fury—sending chills down Hawkman’s spine.

Three panels of Hawkman looking on in horror at Surtur

Surtur’s Past Encounters with the Justice Society

Surtur, a formidable entity derived from Norse mythology, embodies a terror that still resonates in Hawkman’s heart, primarily because he is perhaps the only villain to have definitively defeated the Justice Society in the past. His infernal ambitions include the incineration of Earth, a prelude to Ragnarök. After his initial assault post-Crisis on Infinite Earths, the Justice Society was compelled into interdimensional exile, condemned to battle Surtur indefinitely to prevent the catastrophic end of the world. Although the heroes eventually escaped, the memories of their harrowing encounters with Surtur linger, leaving deep psychological scars.

The strategic decision to reposition the Justice Society during this turbulent period in DC’s publishing history stemmed from the integration of a streamlined continuity. In light of multi-generational hero identities, certain characters—like the Earth-2 Green Arrow and Robin—were tragically written out during the Crisis. Targeting the Justice Society could be perceived as harsh; thus, a more merciful narrative direction was sought.

Renowned writer Roy Thomas, known for his influential contributions to titles such as The Avengers and All-Star Squadron, played a significant role in navigating the complexities surrounding the Justice Society’s legacy.

Upon their triumphant return in 1992’s Armageddon: Inferno, the Justice Society regained prominence in the DC universe. Throughout their resurgence, they faced various challenges, including being sidelined during the New 52 initiative. Presently, internal conflicts trouble the team as Obsidian, now under sinister influences, steers them towards a more aggressive and radical path. With Surtur returning, the heroes must confront not only their past but the stakes involved in their evolving dynamics.

How the Justice Society Has Evolved

Since their last confrontation with Surtur, the Justice Society has significantly transformed, both in scale and composition. The team has expanded, integrating newer, more potent heroes alongside established legacies such as the latest iterations of Doctor Fate and Doctor Mid-Nite. This infusion of fresh talent may provide the Society with the advantage they need to challenge Surtur anew.

Nevertheless, Surtur’s status as a god raises pressing questions about the Society’s capacity to overcome him this time. Their previous failure will surely haunt them, and Surtur undoubtedly seeks vengeance as he allies himself with Wotan in a scheme to take down the Tower of Fate. The response of the Justice Society to this persistent threat remains to be seen—will they manage to rise above their past failures against this legendary adversary?

Fans of the Justice Society can find out more as JSA #3 is available now from DC Comics!

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