Navigating the Pre-Crisis Canon Before Entering 'Crisis on Infinite Earths'
For many fans of the DC Comics universe, entering 'Crisis on Infinite Earths' can be an intimidating prospect. But how necessary is it to read the extensive pre-Crisis canon before diving into this groundbreaking crossover event? Let's break down the importance of reading the pre-Crisis material and explore which stories are truly essential.
Do You Need to Read Anything Before Crisis on Infinite Earths?
Ultimately, the decision to read pre-Crisis material before entering 'Crisis on Infinite Earths' is a personal one. While reading certain comics can certainly add depth and context, it is not strictly necessary to enjoy the story. Alan Moore's Swamp Thing, Denny O'Neil's Batman run, and the various Justice League of America and Teen Titans stories provide rich narratives that enrich the DCU, but they are not essential to understanding the central themes of Crisis on Infinite Earths.
Understanding the Core Story
While Alan Moore's Swamp Thing and Denny O'Neil and Neal Adams' Batman run are highly recommended, they are not absolutely necessary for comprehending the story. The Justice League of America crossovers, such as Crisis on Multiple Earths, and the New Teen Titans series, where The Monitor is introduced, can be enjoyable supplementary reading. However, they are not crucial for understanding Crisis on Infinite Earths.
Key Stories to Consider
For those who wish to get the full DC experience, there are several key stories that are highly recommended. The Identity Crisis series, while not absolutely necessary, provides important background on some of the core characters and storyline. Additionally, the Countdown to Infinite Crisis one-shot and the subsequent Day of Vengeance series, Rann-Thanagar War, Villains United, and The OMAC Project are essential to understanding the full scope of the Crisis. Particularly, the Superman: Sacrifice story arc, which is significant to the OMAC Project and Infinite Crisis, should be read if possible. The The Return of Donna Troy series is a nice addition but is less critical to the overall narrative.
Concluding Thoughts
In summary, while reading pre-Crisis material can enhance the experience and provide a richer understanding of the DC universe, it is not essential. Crisis on Infinite Earths stands on its own and offers a panoramic view of the DC universe. For those who wish to dive deeper into the intricate web of characters and storylines, the recommended readings listed above are highly beneficial.