Member-only story

Kull the Destroyer: A Journey into the Realm of Robert E. Howard's Barbarian

Ken Follett

·3.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Kull The Destroyer (1973 1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971 1978))

6 min read

166 View Claps

12 Respond

Save

Listen

In the annals of fantasy literature, the name Kull the Destroyer echoes through time, a testament to the enduring legacy of Robert E. Howard, the master of the sword-and-sorcery genre. Kull, a fierce warrior and ruler of the ancient kingdom of Valusia, has captivated readers for decades with his heroic exploits and unwavering determination. This article will embark on a chronological journey through the captivating world of Kull, tracing his adventures from the primordial era of Conan the Barbarian to his modern-day incarnations.

Kull The Destroyer (1973-1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971-1978))

by Christina F. York

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	64024 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	17 pages

Kull the Conqueror: The Genesis of a Legend (1971-1978)

Kull's literary origins can be found in the pages of the pulp magazine Weird Tales, where Howard penned a series of stories featuring the indomitable barbarian. These tales, published in the early 1930s, introduced Kull to the world and established him as a formidable figure within the Hyborian Age, a fictional prehistoric era that also served as the setting for Howard's renowned creation, Conan the Barbarian.

In 1971, Marvel Comics launched Kull the Conqueror, a comic book series that further expanded on Kull's adventures. The series, which ran until 1978, depicted Kull's rise from a lowly barbarian to a mighty king, detailing his battles against sorcerers, usurpers, and the forces of darkness.

Cover Of Kull The Conqueror #1 (1971) By Marvel Comics, Featuring Kull Wielding His Battle Axe Kull The Destroyer (1973 1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971 1978))

Kull the Destroyer: A Return to the Pulp Roots (1973-1978)

Concurrently with the Marvel Comics series, Lancer Books released a line of Kull the Destroyer paperback novels from 1973 to 1978. These novels, written by various authors, delved deeper into Kull's exploits as a mercenary, pirate, and eventually, the king of Valusia. The Lancer Books series captured the pulp sensibilities of Howard's original stories, offering readers a thrilling blend of action, adventure, and supernatural elements.

Cover Of Kull The Destroyer #1 (1973) By Lancer Books, Featuring Kull Battling A Giant Serpent Kull The Destroyer (1973 1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971 1978)) — Kull the Destroyer #1 (1973) by Lancer Books

Kull's Legacy in the Savage Sword of Conan (1975-1985)

Kull's influence extended beyond his own comic book and novel series. The character made several guest appearances in Savage Sword of Conan, a magazine that published new Conan stories alongside reprints of Howard's original works. These appearances further cemented Kull's status as a significant figure within the Hyborian Age mythology.

Cover Of Savage Sword Of Conan #104 (1985),Featuring Kull And Conan Facing Off Kull The Destroyer (1973 1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971 1978))

The Return of Kull the Destroyer: A Modern Revival (2005-Present)

In 2005, Dark Horse Comics launched a new Kull the Destroyer comic book series, reviving the character for a modern audience. This series, which ran until 2010, reimagined Kull's origins and adventures, incorporating elements of sword and sorcery with more contemporary themes.

Dark Horse Comics also published several standalone Kull of Atlantis graphic novels, further expanding on Kull's backstory and adventures in the ancient world.

Cover Of Kull The Destroyer Vol. 1 #1 (2005) By Dark Horse Comics Kull The Destroyer (1973 1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971 1978)) — Kull the Destroyer Vol. 1 #1 (2005) by Dark Horse Comics

Kull's Enduring Appeal: A Timeless Barbarian Icon

Kull the Destroyer has remained a popular fantasy character for nearly a century, captivating readers with his raw strength, indomitable spirit, and timeless appeal. His adventures have inspired countless works of fiction, comics, and role-playing games, cementing his place as one of the most iconic barbarians in all of literature.

Kull's enduring popularity can be attributed to his relatability as a flawed but heroic figure. His struggles against overwhelming odds, his insatiable thirst for adventure, and his unwavering loyalty to his comrades resonate with readers of all ages. Furthermore, Kull's barbarian archetype, with its emphasis on physical prowess and moral ambiguity, continues to fascinate and captivate audiences.

From the primordial era of the Hyborian Age to the modern-day revival, Kull the Destroyer has left an enduring legacy in the realm of fantasy literature. His adventures have thrilled and inspired generations of readers, solidifying his status as a timeless icon of the sword-and-sorcery genre. Whether facing ancient sorcerers, usurping kings, or battling forces beyond human comprehension, Kull's unwavering determination and indomitable spirit continue to captivate and entertain audiences worldwide.

Kull The Destroyer (1973-1978) #13 (Kull The Conqueror (1971-1978))

by Christina F. York

5 out of 5