The Absolute Universe setting has reintroduced several classic DC Comics characters in darker but still recognizable forms. However, Wonder Woman is perhaps the most changed of the core DC Trinity. While still a noble protector, this Diana is a sorceress, as well as a swordswoman. This magical aspect of Diana is explored extensively in Absolute Wonder Woman #4.
Written by Kelly Thompson, with art by Hayden Sherman, Absolute Wonder Woman #4 continues Diana’s battle with the Tetracide. Thus far, she has managed to protect the people of Gateway City from the hellish monster, who delivers death on four levels. However, to truly defeat the Tetracide, she will need help and resources to repair her alchemical artificial limb. Luckily, her ally Steve Trevor knows someone who might help.
Steve takes Diana to meet Etta and Gia Candy; two sisters who are also practicing witches. In the classic Wonder Woman comics, Etta was a boisterous sorority girl, who befriended the Amazon princess. In this reality, however, she runs a shop with her sister that sells magical ingredients. With the help of Etta and Gia, Diana is able to work the spell needed to repair her artificial arm.
Absolute Wonder Woman follows witch-god Hecate
Beyond revamping Etta Candy, Absolute Wonder Woman #4 takes another step to confirm Diana’s bonafides as a witch. She evokes the name of Hecate when casting her spell and when cursing her ill fortune. In ancient Greek mythology, Hecate was associated with boundaries, the underworld, herbalism and the moon. Above all, however, Hecate was known as the mother of magic and patron of witches.
Unsurprisingly, Hecate is also the patron of Circe, who is Diana’s foster mother in the reality of Absolute Wonder Woman. A flashback reveals that Hecate allowed Circe, her chosen champion, to be trapped in Hell. However, she did this because she foresaw the need for Diana as a champion on Earth. To that end, she seemingly abandoned her most beloved follower, so Circe could give the future Wonder Woman the knowledge she needed to be a powerful witch and a hero.
Absolute Wonder Woman #4 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
