This comic book review focuses on the Thor story titled “The Enchantress And The Executioner!” from Journey Into Mystery #103.  In this title, Loki continuing to pull the strings of an angered Odin, convinces his step father to send the Enchantress an irresistible immortal to win the heart of Thor.  But will the god of thunder fall in love with the Enchantress, or can the mortal Jane Foster hold his attention over a goddess?

Art

in this issue Jack Kirby shown us that he can be as skilled at drawing the art of seduction as he can be at drawing action, and this issue offered us plenty of both.  from the Enchantress’s efforts to win Don Blake’s heart, to the Executioner fighting Thor for the return of Jane Foster.   here I choose to included a sampling of both, a scene with the Enchantress trying to seduce as well the Executioner battling it out with Thor.

Characters & Development

Loki

Loki, shows us again just how much of a threat he can be from afar, living up to being the God of mischief and  playing to the desires of his fellow  Asgard Gods to try to bring about the end of Thor.  He does this in both convincing Odin that sending the Enchantress to enthralled Thor is a good idea, as well as in explaining his goals to the goddess herself.

Thor’s Love

Thor shows us in this issue, just how strong his love for Jane Foster seems to be, in his resistance of someone who any mortal could not resist.  While you would think this would sway Odin’s views or at least lead him to reconsider, you would be wrong.

demigods: The Enchantress And The Executioner

these two, unnamed gods play a key role in this story; but perhaps most importantly they offer a deeper look into Asgard’s population.  Showing us that Loki is not the only one with ulterior motives, and a heart capable of evil.

Originality & Continuity

in these early marvel comic books, this is one of the first stories built around seduction that I recall seeing; and then when you consider just how much deeper it is then just that. That we have Loki pulling the strings from Asgard, and his two pawns each with deep motives of their own, we have a story that is quite original, and one that fits in with the ongoing story nicely.

Story

When you consider everything above, we have a story where all the pieces fit together nicely; but on its own it also was a compelling and entertaining read, a fine example of the kinds of great story that Stan & Jack can put out.