Batman: Sword of Azrael – DC Comics – (1992–1993) – Volume 1 – Limited Series – #1–4

Batman: Sword of Azrael – DC Comics – (1992–1993) – Volume 1 – Limited Series – #1–4

📘 Series Summary

Witness the fiery birth of Azrael, one of the most pivotal characters of the 1990s Batman mythos. This 4-issue Limited Series introduces Jean-Paul Valley, a scrawny university student who discovers he is the latest in a long line of "avenging angels" for the secretive Order of St. Dumas. Programmed since birth through "The System," Jean-Paul is thrust into a world of religious extremism and high-stakes violence after the death of his father, the previous Azrael.

Written by legendary Batman architect Dennis O'Neil and featuring the breakout artwork of Joe Quesada and Kevin Nowlan, the story follows Batman as he investigates the Order's bloody trail across Europe. As the Dark Knight and Jean-Paul's destinies collide, an uneasy alliance is formed to stop the demon-like arms trafficker LeHah. This series is not only a standalone masterpiece of mystery and action but also serves as the essential prologue to the landmark Knightfall saga, marking the official beginning of a new, darker era for Gotham City.

⭐ Why This Series Stands Out

  • The first appearance and origin of Jean-Paul Valley, the man who would famously replace Bruce Wayne as Batman.
  • Features the early, career-defining pencils of Joe Quesada, whose dynamic style helped redefine the look of DC’s street-level heroes.
  • Introduces the Order of St. Dumas, a foundational piece of Batman lore that continues to impact DC continuity today.
  • Showcases a unique wraparound gatefold cover on Issue #1, highlighting the transition from the old Azrael to the new.
  • A complete 4-issue origin that bridges the gap between classic Batman detective work and 90s blockbuster storytelling.
  • Crucial lead-in to Batman #488 and the start of the Knightfall event.

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