Thor is a fictional character, a
superhero who appears in comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character
first appeared in Journey into Mystery #83 (Aug. 1962) and was created by
editor-plotter Stan Lee, scripter Larry Lieber, and penciller Jack Kirby. The
mythological Thor had appeared previously in Venus #12-13 (Feb-Apr 1951).
Debuting in the Silver Age of Comic
Books, the character is based on the god Thor of Norse mythology. He has
starred in several ongoing series and limited series, and has been a perennial
member of the superhero team the Avengers, appearing in each of the four
volumes. The character has also appeared in associated Marvel merchandise
including animated television series, clothing, toys, trading cards, video
games, and movies.
The 2011 film Thor, based on the
character and comic was directed by Kenneth Branagh and starred Chris Hemsworth
as Thor. Hemsworth reappears as Thor in The Avengers, and Thor: The Dark World
is set for release in 2013. Thor placed 14th on IGN's Top 100 Comic Book Heroes
of All Time in 2011.
