The First Eternals in Marvel Comics: Ikaris and Makkari

Marvel Comics has a vast universe filled with an array of captivating characters, including the Eternals. These long-living entities have played significant roles in the narratives of the Marvel multiverse. Two of the earliest Eternals to make their debut are Ikaris and Makkari, each with their unique background and significance. In this article, we will explore the initial appearances of these characters and determine who can be considered the first Eternal in the Marvel Comics context.

Ikaris: The Origination of the Eternals

Ikaris made his first appearance in Eternals #1, published in 1976. Written by Jack Kirby, Ikaris is one of the original Eternals and was central to the creation of the Eternal race as a concept. This initial issue laid the foundation for the Eternals to be a distinct source universe within the Marvel Comics multiverse. With his first appearance, Ikaris introduced Marvel readers to the unique and powerful beings that would go on to shape the MCU.

Makkari: From Old Heroes to Eternal

Makkari's introduction to the Eternal pantheon is a bit more complex. He was not immediately part of the Eternals. Instead, he was originally conceived as an older hero, specifically Mercury, who first appeared in Red Raven comics in 1940. Another character, Hurricane, who appeared in Captain America Comics #1 in 1941, was also considered an early concept for Makkari. However, Makkari did not make his debut as a member of the Eternals until Eternals #5, published in 1976. This later date means that Makkari is, in a sense, a generation younger than his Mercury and Hurricane predecessors.

Determining the First Eternal

The question of who was the first Eternal in the Marvel Comics context can be approached from different angles. One perspective is that Ikaris is the definitive first Eternal, as his character was the catalyst that led to the creation of the concept of the Eternals. Additionally, Ikaris's role in the founding of Zuar (the home planet of the Eternals) solidifies his place in the narrative as pioneering the first Eternals. However, from a strict chronological standpoint, Makkari's debut could be considered the first among the actual Eternal characters.

The Legacy of the Eternals

No matter which Eternal’s appearance is considered the first, both Ikaris and Makkari have left indelible marks on Marvel Comics. They represent the beginning of a lineage that has grown over the years, each contributing to the ever-evolving storytelling within the Marvel universe. Their origins set the stage for the complexities of the Eternal race, their conflicts, and the intricate connections they share with other Marvel characters.

Conclusion

While the origin of the Eternals can be traced back to the early work of Jack Kirby in 1976, the first Eternal character to appear according to Marvel’s traditional canonical line is Ikaris. However, Makkari's role as a character who was originally conceived as an older hero and later became an Eternal adds an interesting layer to the narrative. Regardless, the creation of the Eternals and their debut in comic books marked a significant milestone in Marvel Comics history.