The Fear of Fire in DC Comics Martians: Myth or Fact?
The Fear of Fire in DC Comics' Martians: Myth or Fact?
The fear of fire is a recurring theme in DC Comics, particularly in the case of Martian Manhunter, Jonn J'onzz. However, this does not mean that all Martians share this fear. This article explores the origins and implications of the fire phobia within the Martian race, based on the rich history and lore of DC Comics.
Historical Background of Martian Fear of Fire
Tracing back to the early days, Martians were once known as the Burning Martians. They relied on tormenting others to reproduce, making them highly aggressive and uncontrolled. As they became intelligent enough to contemplate space travel, the Guardians of Oa took action. In an attempt to curb their expansion, the Guardians placed a psychic block on ALL Martians that instilled a fear of fire. This psychic intervention aimed to prevent Martians from spreading their violent tendencies to other worlds, thus avoiding widespread torment and conquest.
Impact on Martian Society
Upon this psychic intervention, Martian society split into two factions: the White Martians and the Green Martians. The Green Martians turned their focus towards science, art, and music, abandoning their aggressive and tormenting ways. Conversely, the White Martians remained dedicated to the conquest of Mars, where they worship the Fire Demons. This duality within Martian society is a direct result of the Guardians' intervention.
Martian Manhunter's Personal Struggle
Martian Manhunter, who has been residing on Earth for a significant period, has had to overcome the psychic block and the ingrained fear of fire. Over time, he has trained himself to tolerate and handle fire, making him more versatile and better suited for Earth's realities.
Evolving Plotlines
The portrayal of Martian fear of fire has evolved over the years. In a particular storyline, it was revealed that both Green and White Martians are descended from the "Burning Martians" who were highly aggressive and combative. The Guardians addressed this issue through a genetic modification that caused a hereditary pyrophobia among Martians, effectively dealing with their uncontrollable aggression.
Conclusion
While the fear of fire is a significant aspect of Martian Manhunter's character, it is not a universal trait among all Martians. The lore of DC Comics provides a nuanced understanding of Martian history, showing how the Psychic Block and subsequent genetic modifications have led to different paths for various groups of Martians.