And Then I Read: AGE OF BRONZE 31

Images © Eric Shanower.

I've been wondering how Eric was going to handle the appearance in the battle of Troy of mythological creatures and/or gods. It's been a long haul reading this epic version of the epic story, but I don't recall seeing any of those creatures or entities so far, at least not interacting with the main players, all very human. Issue 31's cover features a new character who seems to represent a Centaur in the story, though he's actually a warrior riding  on horseback, something practically unknown to the time and place. I'm guessing that Eric means to keep all the characters fully invested in reality, then: no actual Centaurs. Nothing wrong with that, it helps make the story more believable in one sense. Perhaps a little less fun, but then war shouldn't be fun anyway.

Troilus and Cressida are still front and center in much of this issue, and their story is well-handled, if a bit overwrought at times. The war scenes are painfully real, though it's sometimes hard to know who is who, but when it matters most Eric makes it clear. Other subplots work around the edges well.

Eric's art is as terrific as ever, remarkably consistent and with great figure work and composition. No particularly memorable stand-out moments for me this time, but it's all quite fine. Eric mentions that the next collection of this book will be out soon, and the collections would be a very good way to enjoy this series.

Recommended.