The Immortal, a prominent character in the Invincible universe, is primarily based on Vandal Savage from DC Comics. He also serves as a heroic homage to Superman, contrasting with Omni-Man's villainous portrayal.
The character's origins draw inspiration from multiple iconic figures, blending elements of ancient immortality with a mandate for heroism.
The Core Inspiration: Vandal Savage
At his foundation, The Immortal shares significant similarities with DC Comics' Vandal Savage. Both characters are ancient beings who have lived for millennia, witnessing and influencing vast swaths of human history. However, their core motivations diverge significantly:
- Vandal Savage: Typically depicted as a master strategist obsessed with world domination and survival through conflict. His immortality fuels his relentless pursuit of power and influence.
- The Immortal: While also an ancient immortal, his driving force is the pursuit of heroism and the protection of Earth. He actively uses his vast experience and powers for the greater good, leading teams like the Guardians of the Globe. This fundamental difference recontextualizes the concept of an ageless being from one of conquest to one of guardianship.
A Heroic Homage to Superman
Beyond Vandal Savage, The Immortal also functions as a direct heroic homage to Superman, another iconic DC Comics character. This connection highlights his role as a quintessential superhero:
- Powers and Abilities: Like Superman, The Immortal possesses an array of superhuman abilities, including flight, immense strength, durability, and a strong moral compass. He is often seen as Earth's primary line of defense.
- Moral Stance: His unwavering commitment to justice and protecting humanity aligns closely with Superman's idealized heroism. He embodies the classic trope of a powerful protector dedicated to the well-being of the innocent.
- Contrast with Omni-Man: The narrative smartly uses The Immortal to contrast with Omni-Man. While Omni-Man is presented as a villainous interpretation or deconstruction of the Superman archetype (initially appearing as a hero only to reveal his destructive true intentions), The Immortal remains steadfast in his heroic endeavors, offering a traditional counterpoint within the Invincible universe.
Key Inspirations at a Glance
The following table summarizes the primary inspirations for The Immortal:
| Inspiration | DC Comics Character | Shared Trait(s) | Differentiating Trait(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Base | Vandal Savage | Ancient immortal, vast experience | The Immortal's mandate is heroism, not world conquest. |
| Heroic Archetype | Superman | Flight, strength, invulnerability, strong moral compass | Omni-Man represents the villainous counterpart/deconstruction. |
In essence, The Immortal is a unique blend, taking the longevity and historical depth of Vandal Savage and imbuing it with the pure, unwavering heroism reminiscent of Superman, creating a distinctive character within the superhero genre.
