The Green Lantern mythos spans decades, with countless stories and heroes wielding the power of willpower. Here’s a breakdown of 10 iconic Green Lantern comics, ranked for their lasting impact and storytelling brilliance
Green Lantern: Rebirth (2005) by Geoff Johns & Ethan Van Sciver: This landmark story revitalized the Green Lantern franchise after years of creative stagnation. It brought back Hal Jordan as the Green Lantern and laid the groundwork for the emotional spectrum and the rise of the Sinestro Corps.
Sinestro Corps War (2007) by Geoff Johns & Various Artists: An epic space opera that pits the Green Lantern Corps against the yellow lantern-wielding Sinestro Corps. This storyline expands the Green Lantern universe, introduces new characters, and raises the stakes for the power of willpower.
Green Lantern/Green Arrow (1983) by Dennis O’Neil & Neal Adams: A social commentary disguised as a superhero team-up. Green Lantern’s optimism clashes with Green Arrow’s grounded cynicism, sparking thought-provoking discussions about social issues and heroism.
Emerald Twilight (1994) by Neal Adams & Ron Marz: A dark and controversial story that sees Hal Jordan succumb to despair and become the villain Parallax. This event forever changed the Green Lantern mythos and explored the consequences of unchecked grief and rage.
Green Lantern: Secret Origin (2008) by Geoff Johns & Ivan Reis: This origin story delves deep into Hal Jordan’s past, exploring his formative experiences and the events that shaped him into the Green Lantern he becomes. A must-read for any Green Lantern fan.
Green Lantern Corps: Recharge (2005) by Geoff Johns & Dave Gibbons: This miniseries reintroduces the Green Lantern Corps after the events of Emerald Twilight. It focuses on Kilowog, a veteran Green Lantern, and introduces new Lanterns from across the galaxy.
Green Lantern (2019) by Grant Morrison & Liam Sharp: A more experimental take on the Green Lantern mythos. Grant Morrison injects his signature mind-bending concepts, creating a visually stunning and thought-provoking story.
8 Green Lanterns (2016) by Cullen Bunn & Various Artists: An anthology series featuring eight different Green Lanterns, each with a unique story and artistic style. A great way to experience the diverse range of Green Lantern characters.
Ion: The Torchbearer (2005) by Judd Winick & Dale Eaglesham: Kyle Rayner, a young artist who inherits a Green Lantern ring, takes center stage. This series explores creativity, legacy, and the power of imagination.
DC Universe: The Stories of Alan Moore (2006) – Green Lantern: The legendary writer Alan Moore crafts a standalone Green Lantern story brimming with his signature wit and philosophical depth.