My goal in creating comics is to use formal elements of the medium to express themes, rather than simply telling a straightforward narrative. Panel arrangement, placement, shape, etc. can all be utilized to express more than simply a series of events. I intend for certain key structural elements of the pages to both link characters to each other and define their differences. Within Mighty, I assigned each character and theme its own signifier and structure to further the reader’s understanding of the story. For example, Shammah’s panels mimic those of Byzantine art and altarpieces. The Byzantine religion was deeply embedded in every aspect of their culture, just as Shammah’s religious belief is the crux of his struggle within the story. Benaiah flows freely from top to bottom of each page in an unbroken motion. A single continuous line winds through the page, forming each panel as it goes. This simple device allows Benaiah to gracefully glide through the page without hindrances.

Every main character within Mighty has a different approach to and sense of duty. Each feels called to serve God, while finding that the consequences of his actions fill him with questions and doubt. David is the icon of war. He is glorified in battle, always depicted heroically. His charmed life has left him indestructible up to this point, causing him to become arrogant and ignore God’s presence. Joab represents the more abject side of war. He inhabits the blood and chaos at David’s feet. Eleazar finds comfort in the craft of war. His armor and the weapons he creates shield him from the violence. His children see him as a hero and caring father, helping him see past the violence he partakes in. Shammah represents the central question of Mighty. Shammah does not understand how serving his Lord has become so painful to him. Horrific nightmares of brutality haunt Shammah’s sleep. He still seeks solace in prayer, but begins to question if he is following God or David in battle. Benaiah looks at all events as natural progression. Seeing how battle is a necessary part of his service to God, Benaiah is somewhat incapable of feeling empathy for the enemy. At peace with his task, he enters battle unarmed and unclothed. He has no fear, as he believes God is guiding and protecting him.

Each theme is not addressed in one page or one line of dialogue, but should be gathered from the overall intellection of the comic. This work is not only an exploration of The Mighty Men’s story, but also an exploration of the comics medium.

Tyrell Olen Cannon