A Modernist's Dilemma: Classic Comics

[ThePhenom]

Before I start, I suspect this may belong in the recommendations thread but I elected to post it in a new thread as the questions posed are broader than just "what should I read?".

Anyway, see I have a far smaller scope of the Marvel universe as I really got back into comics a few years ago, I mean I know the general gist of what's happened in the last 60 years or so (as in the major events, origins etc.) but it seems wrong without having some readable knowledge.

I mean I read a bundle of contemporary comics and in that sense from the 90s onwards am pretty well-read, but I want to know where to start in terms of classic comics.

My other problem lies in whether classic comics are timeless because they are just good comics or only because they shaped what comics are today. I mean by today's stereotype are they really just corny writing and kitsh looks?

Anyway, suggestions and opinions? Where do I start?

Also, apologies in advance for the flitty writing of this post, it's getting late here, my brains ceases to function and the Dandy Warhols blasting in my ears didn't help too much either.

[Expletive Deleted]

The regulars on the Classic Comics fourm might be better able to answer your questions, but . . .

CD-ROM collections are on their way out, but they're the absolute best value and they're a nice option if you don't mind reading comics on computer. Those excepted, Essential volumes and Masterworks volumes are two good options. The former are black and white on lousy paper, but they're relatively cheap. The latter are in color on good paper, but they're relatively pricey. Omnibus volumes are similar to Masterworks volumes, but they collect both classic and modern material and they're substantially bigger (two to three years worth of comics).

In terms of corniness . . . well, it varies. Classic Marvel comics range from stuff that seems horribly dated (but is nonetheless charming) to stuff that wouldn't seem too far out of place on the stands today in terms of relative sophistication.

[ThePhenom]

Oh, I mean in terms of what stories and what not, but thanks nonetheless.

And I figured here because I mean purely Marvel, a little narrow but just a preference.

[Rolltideguy77]

I think they are timeless for several reasons. They did help shape comics as we know them. That is where we first meet many of the heroes/villains and their origins. I love the art and storytelling myself, others may not. I would go with Kirby's FF, anything early Spidey, Steranko's Nick Fury, Roy Thomas's X-Men/Avengers. Those are my faves, most all available in collected works.
If you can find them on Amazon or Ebay (they stopped making them) get the DVD-ROM's of these series. You get the ENTIRE run from issue 1 up to about 2006 including annuals. Its not always best reading on the computer but for about $25-35 per series run you cant beat it.

[Rolltideguy77]

double post

[ThePhenom]

Ahhh thanks, I was planning on getting the omnibus of Lee/Kirby's F4... even if it meant stomaching Sue as a damsel in distress :D.

[Expletive Deleted]

In that case, yeah. Lee and Kirby on FF is the heart of the early MU, and probably the best of it. The peak of their run is probably from the mid-#40s to the mid-#60s (give or take). Galactus, the Inhumans, Black Panther, Silver Surfer and Dr. Doom, "This Man, This Monster," and so on.

[Rock It Raccoon]

In that case, yeah. Lee and Kirby on FF is the heart of the early MU, and probably the best of it. The peak of their run is probably from the mid-#40s to the mid-#60s (give or take). Galactus, the Inhumans, Black Panther, Silver Surfer and Dr. Doom, "This Man, This Monster," and so on.

yeah. if your springin for an omnibus i'd recommend doing what i did and starting with FF vol. 2... such a fine piece of comic right there. and it sure can keep you busy for some time.