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The Incredible Hulk #156 (1962): A Deep Dive into the Martinique Papillion Saga

DeShawn Powell

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Published in Incredible Hulk (1962 1999) #156 Martinique Papillion

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Cover Of The Incredible Hulk #156 Featuring The Incredible Hulk And Martinique Papillion Incredible Hulk (1962 1999) #156 Martinique Papillion

Incredible Hulk (1962-1999) #156

by Martinique Papillion

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	83110 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	21 pages

In the annals of comic book history, The Incredible Hulk #156 (1962) stands as a seminal issue that not only expanded the Hulk's mythology but also introduced a memorable and enigmatic character: Martinique Papillion. This issue, crafted by the legendary duo of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, marked a pivotal moment in the Silver Age of Comics and laid the foundation for countless future Hulk storylines.

The Storyline

The Incredible Hulk #156 opens with the Hulk and his loyal companion, Rick Jones, seeking refuge in the Caribbean island of Martinique. However, their respite is short-lived when they encounter the enigmatic puppeteer Martinique Papillion, who possesses the ability to control minds with his puppets. Papillion, driven by a vendetta against the Hulk, unleashes his puppets upon the unsuspecting duo, forcing them to navigate a perilous labyrinth of illusions and mind games.

As the Hulk and Rick struggle to overcome Papillion's machinations, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens to destroy the entire island. Papillion, it turns out, is working in league with the villainous General Fang, who seeks to use Martinique as a launchpad for a devastating nuclear attack. With the fate of the island hanging in the balance, the Hulk and Rick must race against time to expose Papillion's true nature and thwart Fang's sinister plans.

Characters

The Incredible Hulk: The protagonist of the issue, the Hulk is a formidable force with immense strength and regenerative abilities. However, his uncontrollable rage often poses a challenge to his allies and himself.

Rick Jones: The Hulk's loyal companion, Rick Jones serves as the audience's surrogate in the story. His agility and quick thinking often prove invaluable to the Hulk's efforts.

Martinique Papillion: The enigmatic puppeteer, Martinique Papillion is a formidable adversary with the ability to control minds through his puppets. His motivations are shrouded in mystery, making him a complex and compelling character.

General Fang: The villainous mastermind behind the plot to destroy Martinique, General Fang is a ruthless and ambitious military leader bent on using nuclear weapons to further his own agenda.

Artwork

Jack Kirby's iconic artwork in The Incredible Hulk #156 is a testament to the Silver Age's dynamic and exaggerated style. Kirby's bold lines and expressive figures capture the Hulk's raw power and Papillion's sinister machinations with equal brilliance. The panels are filled with intricate details and imaginative backgrounds that immerse the reader in the story's captivating world.

Interior Artwork From The Incredible Hulk #156 Featuring The Hulk Battling Martinique Papillion's Puppets Incredible Hulk (1962 1999) #156 Martinique Papillion

Impact and Legacy

The Incredible Hulk #156 had a profound impact on the Marvel Universe and the character of the Hulk himself. The of Martinique Papillion added a new dimension to the Hulk's rogue's gallery, establishing him as a formidable and cunning adversary. Papillion's mind-controlling abilities challenged the Hulk's physical prowess and forced him to confront his inner demons.

Furthermore, the issue's exploration of themes such as identity, control, and the consequences of unchecked power resonated with readers and cemented The Incredible Hulk as a socially relevant superhero title. The story's legacy is evident in its influence on subsequent Hulk storylines, including the landmark "Planet Hulk" and "World War Hulk" arcs.

The Incredible Hulk #156 (1962) is a classic comic book that showcases the brilliance of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby at the height of their creative powers. The issue's gripping storyline, memorable characters, and stunning artwork have left an enduring mark on the Marvel Universe and continue to captivate readers to this day. Martinique Papillion's enigmatic presence and the themes explored in the story make this issue a must-read for any fan of the Incredible Hulk and a testament to the power of comic books to entertain, inspire, and provoke thought.

Incredible Hulk (1962-1999) #156

by Martinique Papillion

4 out of 5