The world of comic books is filled with superheroes, villains, and even animals. Animals are commonly used in comic books as the hero’s most loyal companions. This is where the horse topic emerges.
Horses have been around us for centuries, and there is no doubt that we’ve created a special bond with these animals. Therefore, finding horse characters in comic books isn’t really hard. There are plenty of comics that feature a horse as the hero’s companion, and there are some comic books that are made just for horses.
In most cases, horses don’t come in their usual form, especially not in comic books. They often have some kind of superpower that enables the heroes to defeat the villains.
The History of Horses in Comics
The introduction of horses in comic books goes back decades. We can see traces of horses being one of the main characters in books as early as the 1930s, and they are a common theme across the entire world.
Horses have been included in US comics (superhero ones) as well as in France, in the 1970s where horses were found in every comic.
They have been also a common theme in Western comic books, which were very popular at that time. In other words, horses have found their place not just in superhero comic books, but also in other genres.
In France, Michel Blanc-Dumont and Laurence Harlé’s 1974 novel Jonathan Cartland made its premiere in the monthly “Lucky Luke” before moving to “Pilote” in 1977. A passionate horseman, Blanc-Dumont expertly depicted a horse and rider in opulent environments, complemented by exceptional coloring by his spouse Claudine.
Lieutenant Blueberry by Jean Giraud and Jean-Michel Charlier, which was produced in 1963 in “Pilote” and depicts a cavalry lieutenant in revolt close to the Mexican border, are two more excellent French westerns.
From iconic heroes like The Lone Ranger, whose trusty steed Silver was a key part of his crime-fighting team, to fantastical worlds where magical horses roam alongside heroes, horses have left their hoofprints in the pages of comic book history.
This was the era of Western comic books, where horses played a crucial part in the story. To be honest, we are quite surprised that there aren’t many horse racing comic books.
Can you imagine reading a comic book featuring the Kentucky Derby race? With the 150th Kentucky Derby anniversary approaching, it would have been the perfect warm-up for the race.
This is going to be an epic race, and if you miss it, here is a link where you can browse through all the past Kentucky Derby results at Twin Spires.
Heroes and Their Equine Allies
Why were horses so popular? And why does every main character need a trusty steed?
Well, if we are talking about Western comic books, the best way to paint the Western picture is to include horses. When it comes to superhero comic books, creators often wanted to add a connection between the hero and some kind of animal, which was often horses due to their incredible bond with humans.
On top of that, horses can give superheroes certain abilities and make them even more powerful. Do you remember Pegasus from Wonder Woman? The horse that originated from Greek Mythology found itself in DC comic books. It embodies the spirit of ancient mythology and also gives Wonder Woman the ability to fly. Later (in 1984) Wonder Woman gained her ability to fly, but up until then, Pegasus was the main character who took the spotlight.
So, it not only adds a layer of emotional connection, it also gives the superhero new abilities.
How Horses Are Shown in Comic Art
Horses are majestic and graceful, and comic panelists have masterfully captured these qualities in their work.
Horses are shown in comic books with awe and adoration, whether they are racing across huge landscapes or bravely standing behind their human counterparts, showing their importance in storytelling and visual narrative.
Magical Horses and Fantasy Worlds
Horses take on magical attributes in fantasy comic book settings; they include legendary winged horses that can soar through the heavens and unicorns with their single spiral horn, which symbolize purity and enchantment.
These mythical beings enthrall readers with their ethereal presence while adding complexity and magic to comic book legend.
Popular Horses in Comics
Silver (The Lone Ranger): Silver is perhaps one of the most iconic horses in comic book history, known for his loyalty and bravery as the trusted steed of The Lone Ranger.
Pegasus (Wonder Woman): Wonder Woman’s winged horse Pegasus symbolizes freedom and strength, often accompanying her on daring adventures and battles.
Arion (New Gods): Arion, a mystical horse from the New Gods comics, possesses powerful abilities and is associated with the realm of magic and mythology.
The Evolution of Horse Characters
Over the years, horse characters in comic books have evolved, gaining more complex personalities and story arcs. They are not merely background elements but integral members of the comic book universe, contributing to themes of companionship, adventure, and the bond between humans and animals.
On top of that, we as humans have developed a special connection with these animals, and seeing them in comic books makes the storytelling and adventure even more exciting.
