Kingdom Come Summary & Key Insights

Mark Waid and Alex Ross's "Kingdom Come" (with Elliot S. Maggin's contributions to the script) is a DC Comics Elseworlds story depicting a grim future for the superhero community. Set approximately fifteen years after a perceived golden age of heroes, the story explores the consequences of societal disillusionment with metahumans and the subsequent shift in superhero philosophy.

The narrative centers around Norman McCay, an elderly, retired Superman analogue known as "The Man of Tomorrow," who witnesses a horrifying incident involving a new generation of reckless, violent vigilantes. This event triggers his return from his self-imposed exile, prompting him to try and guide the remaining "old guard" of heroes towards a path of reconciliation and order.

Key characters include a disillusioned Superman, now a weary protector operating under a far more stringent moral code; Batman, having become a recluse but maintaining a network of information; and Wonder Woman, now a more politically active, if still powerful, force. These older heroes represent a bygone era of heroism characterized by restraint, responsibility, and a sense of idealistic purpose. Contrasting with them are the younger generation of superheroes, often morally ambiguous and wildly destructive, embodying the societal shift away from traditional values. This new generation is led by figures like Magog, a brutal, unchecked vigilante who mirrors the ruthless aspects of modern society, and Captain Marvel, a younger, less disciplined version of the classic hero.

The central conflict revolves around the impending clash between the older and newer generations of heroes. The older heroes, witnessing the reckless violence of the younger generation, attempt to intervene and restore a sense of order. However, they are increasingly marginalized and viewed with suspicion by the public and even some of their former allies. This conflict is further complicated by the interference of a powerful, manipulative entity, the Spectre, who is gradually pushed into a position where he has to side with the younger, more chaotic forces.

Throughout the story, the overarching themes of aging, legacy, and the changing nature of heroism are prominent. The aging heroes grapple with their fading relevance and the difficult task of mentoring a new generation that doesn't adhere to their ideals. The story also explores the implications of unchecked power, the erosion of societal trust in heroes, and the dangers of embracing extremism in both superheroics and political discourse. The narrative culminates in a massive confrontation between the older and newer generations, showcasing a tragic cost for both sides, before leaving the readers with a poignant reflection on the past, present, and uncertain future of heroism. The ultimate message remains ambiguous: the "kingdom" of superheroes is broken, and its future uncertain.