Diana of Themyscira has been reimagined for a darker universe. If you have been searching for a fresh take on the Amazonian warrior, the “Absolute” universe delivers a version stripped of her standard support system. This guide breaks down the lore, physical stats, and creative vision behind this radical redefinition of a classic hero.
What Is the Story of Absolute Wonder Woman?
The core premise of Absolute Wonder Woman involves a universe created from Darkseid’s energy. In this reality, heroes lack their traditional advantages. Diana is raised not in paradise, but in Hell. She is a witch and a warrior who wields magic and steel rather than relying on the Greek gods to solve her problems. She arrives in “Man’s World” not as an ambassador of peace, but as a last resort against overwhelming darkness.
Who Created the Absolute Wonder Woman Series?
The series is spearheaded by writer Kelly Thompson, known for her work on Captain Marvel and Black Widow. The art is handled by Hayden Sherman, whose jagged, expressionistic style gives the book a distinct, heavy-metal aesthetic. Their collaboration has produced a version of Wonder Woman that feels ancient, terrifying, and deeply human.
How Tall Is Absolute Wonder Woman?
Physical stature is a major topic of discussion among fans. While traditional Wonder Woman is often listed at 6’0″ or taller, the absolute wonder woman height appears significantly more imposing. Based on comparative panels in the comics, she is depicted as towering over most human men. While an official canon height hasn’t been printed in a databook, artistic rendering suggests she stands approximately 6’5″ to 6’8″.
What Are the Powers of Absolute Wonder Woman?
Unlike the standard DC Universe version, this Diana’s power set comes from sorcery.
- Infernal Magic: She casts spells derived from her upbringing in the Underworld.
- Super Strength: She retains the dense muscle mass of an Amazon, but it is amplified by magical tattoos.
- Flight: Instead of riding air currents, she summons spectral wings or mounts a skeletal Pegasus.
- Durability: Her body is hardened by hellfire, making her resistant to blades and bullets.
The Sword and Arsenal of Absolute Wonder Woman
The absolute wonder woman sword is not a standard metal blade. It appears to be crafted from obsidian and contains the trapped essence of a demon. The sword can cut through magical barriers as easily as physical armor. She also carries a lasso, though this version is not the golden rope of truth; it is a chain of binding that burns the wicked.
Absolute Wonder Woman and Batman: A New Dynamic
The relationship between absolute wonder woman and batman is fundamentally different from the main canon. In this universe, Batman is a working-class engineer with a chip on his shoulder and no Alfred to guide him. When he meets Diana, he is initially terrified of her. Their dynamic is one of skepticism versus supernatural certainty. She views him as a fragile man trying too hard; he views her as a threat to the natural order.
Key Issues: Absolute Wonder Woman #15 and #16
The series has maintained high stakes leading into its latter arcs.
- Absolute Wonder Woman 15: This issue focused heavily on Diana’s past in Hell. It revealed that her mentor, Circe, sacrificed her own freedom to allow Diana to escape to Earth. The issue ends with the arrival of the Tetracide.
- Absolute Wonder Woman 16: The narrative escalates as Diana battles the Tetracide in Gateway City. This issue also introduced the “Diana’s Lasso” variant cover, which became a collector’s item. The revelations regarding her connection to the “Hand of the Dead” reshaped how readers view her magic.
The Significance of the Absolute Wonder Woman Annual
The Absolute Wonder Woman Annual is a vital piece of the puzzle. It does not serve as a filler issue. Instead, it explores the history of Themyscira in the Absolute universe. The annual reveals that the island was not a utopia, but a prison. The Amazons were not peaceful scholars but warlords who were banished by Zeus for their cruelty. This context explains why Diana refuses to call herself an Amazon.
Collecting Absolute Wonder Woman Variant Covers
The art style of Hayden Sherman has made absolute wonder woman variant covers a hot commodity. Collectors specifically look for:
- Cover C: Often featuring minimalist design with a focus on the sword.
- Foil Variants: Showcasing the magical runes on her arms.
- Incentive Ratios: 1:25 and 1:50 covers by artists like Dan Panosian often fetch high prices on the secondary market. The absolute wonder woman 16 cover c is particularly popular due to its dark silhouette against a red moon.
List of Major Villains
The absolute wonder woman villains are not traditional costumed crooks. They are gods, monsters, and corrupted politicians.
- The Tetracide: A four-dimensional beast that eats reality.
- The Hand of the Dead: A cult that worships the magic Diana abandoned.
- General Antiope: A twisted version of her aunt who hunts her across dimensions.
- Zeus: A silent antagonist who wants to reclaim his “weapon.”
Essential Reading Order: Vol. 1 and Collected Editions
To follow the story without hunting down single issues, you should purchase the collected editions.
- Absolute Wonder Woman Vol 1: The Last Amazon: Collects issues #1-6. This introduces her escape from Hell and her arrival in Gateway City.
- Absolute Wonder Woman Vol 2: The Hand of the Dead: Collects issues #7-12. This establishes her rivalry with the U.S. Military.
- Singles: Issues #13-18 continue the “Tetracide War” arc.
Why Is the Art Style Different?
Hayden Sherman uses thick, heavy inks and geometric shapes. The art is intentionally “ugly” in a beautiful way. This is not a sleek superhero book. The lines are jagged, representing Diana’s broken past. The color palette relies heavily on crimson, black, and stark white, creating high contrast that emphasizes her glowing blue eyes.
Detailed Comparison Table: Absolute vs. Classic Wonder Woman
To help you visualize the changes, here is a breakdown of the entity differences:
| Feature | Classic Wonder Woman (Prime Earth) | Absolute Wonder Woman |
| Origin | Born on Themyscira, molded from clay. | Born in Hell, raised by Circe. |
| Source of Power | Blessings of the Greek Gods. | Dark Magic and Infernal Curses. |
| Primary Weapon | Lasso of Truth, Bracelets of Submission. | BFS (Big Sword), Binding Chain. |
| Personality | Diplomatic, Loving, Peacekeeper. | Stoic, Pragmatic, Witch. |
| Costume | Red, Blue, Gold. | Black, Silver, Red accents. |
| Status | Ambassador of Peace. | Exiled Warrior. |
The Reception and Future of the Title
Critics have praised the series for taking risks. The focus on horror and fantasy over traditional superhero tropes has attracted readers who usually avoid DC Comics. The title continues to sell well in collected editions, ensuring that this interpretation of Diana will remain a part of the DC multiverse for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Absolute Wonder Woman stronger than Superman?
A: In the Absolute Universe, their paths have not crossed in a physical fight yet. Based on her feats of magic, she likely has the advantage over this universe’s less experienced, less powerful Superman.
Q: What is the reading order for Absolute Wonder Woman?
A: Start with Absolute Wonder Woman #1, proceed through the single issues, or pick up Vol. 1 which collects the first arc. You do not need to read the main DC universe to understand this story.
Q: Does Absolute Wonder Woman have a love interest?
A: The series focuses more on survival than romance. However, there is a deep, complex bond between Diana and Steve Trevor, who is a soldier hunting her, that hints at future development.
Q: Why did they change Wonder Woman’s origin?
A: The “Absolute” line was designed by DC to strip heroes of their defining traits. For Diana, removing her Amazonian paradise and replacing it with a Hellish upbringing allowed writers to explore her resilience and morality in a new light.
Q: Is the Absolute Wonder Woman comic suitable for kids?
A: No. This comic features heavy horror elements, gore, and dark themes. It is rated for teens and older audiences.
Q: Where can I buy Absolute Wonder Woman ?
A: You can find physical copies at local comic book shops, or digital versions on platforms like DC Universe Infinite or Comixology.
Conclusion
The Absolute Wonder Woman series offers a refreshing departure from seventy years of continuity. Whether you are drawn to the striking absolute wonder woman art or the gritty storyline, this book demands your attention. Pick up the first volume today and witness the birth of a new legend.