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While the impact of death in comics has been much discussed, long-term injury and rehabilitation has not, despite having similar effects on character, plot and setting. Predictably, this is something Claremont often does very well. 1/5 #xmen
Beginning with Banshee in the Byrne era, Claremont will often subject his heroes to long-term injury, then, instead of the usual “walk-it-off by next issue” trope, portray their slow rehabilitation and the emotional symptoms that accompany this. 2/5
These symptoms include frustration, exhaustion, overcompensation, and even outright depression. Thus, the injuries end up showcasing more than just the physical vulnerability of the superhero, but the emotional vulnerability as well, further humanizing them. 3/5
Claremont’s roster has various characters out for certain issues or even for extensive runs. This creates gaps in the lineup, allowing Claremont to try-out, debut or cultivate other members, a process that has resulted in multiple enduring characters taking off. 4/5
More importantly, the toll of injury becomes far more meaningful when you know a three panel battle sequence could take your favorite character out of the book for a year and a half. Thus Claremont ups the stakes dramatically, adding weight and gravity to his fight sequences. 5/5
