| Konar the Macedonian | |
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 | |
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Real Name |
Konar the Macedonian |
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First Appearance |
"The Barbarian, a Tale of Sybaris and Macedon in the year 507" in Feature Funnies #15 (Dec. 1938) |
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Original Publisher |
Quality |
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Created by |
Robert M. Hyatt and Ed Cronin |
Origin[]
Konar was born in a modest village in the Epirus region, a land defined by its rugged beauty and rigid social hierarchies. From an early age, he exhibited intelligence, resourcefulness, and a strong sense of justice. Though his family lived humbly, his father, Petrak, was a respected figure—a visionary leader with progressive ideas that left a profound impact on Konar. As a boy, Konar worked in the royal stables, honing his skills in handling horses. His calm demeanor and ability to control even the wildest steeds became a hallmark of his character, traits that would later define his journey as a hero.
Konar’s life changed during a conflict between the city-state of Sybaris and its adversaries. During a critical battle, chaos erupted when horses stampeded uncontrollably across the battlefield. Using his flute, Konar played a haunting melody that calmed the animals, redirecting their energy to aid Sybaris' forces. This decisive act not only secured victory but also elevated Konar to the status of a hero. His bravery and ingenuity became a symbol of hope and resilience in the eyes of the Sybarites.
After the battle, Konar and Petrak were celebrated in Sybaris with lavish feasts and parades. The people, awed by Petrak's wisdom and Konar’s valor, invited Petrak to assume the throne. However, Petrak declined, advocating instead for Kalvah, a trusted warrior and ally, to take the crown. Kalvah, known for his deep connection to the Sybarite people, was crowned king with Konar’s unwavering support. Konar’s respect for his father’s decision and his acknowledgment of Kalvah’s suitability showcased his humility and insight.
During this period of celebration, Konar experienced a deeply personal triumph. Discovering a group of presumed-dead comrades, he brought them back to Sybaris, further solidifying his reputation as a compassionate and capable leader. Konar’s commitment to his allies and his ability to inspire loyalty earned him admiration throughout the kingdom.
With Kalvah now king, Konar and his father prepared to return to their homeland of Epirus. As a token of gratitude, Kalvah gifted them a magnificent ship, and their departure was marked by a grand procession, symbolizing the enduring bond between Konar and Sybaris. However, the city’s triumph was short-lived. Lyceus, the ousted tyrant of Sybaris, enacted a sinister plan to destroy the city. Diverting the Crathis River, he flooded the region, wiping out much of Sybaris in an act of vengeance.
Before the city’s fall, Konar continued his fight against Lyceus’ tyranny. Disguised as Shan-lo, a captured Asiatic barbarian, Konar infiltrated Sybaris’ Royal Guard. Using walnut oil to alter his appearance and adopting a perfect accent, he maintained his cover while observing the injustices under Lyceus’ rule. His connection to the Guard’s prized Arabian chargers highlighted his innate bond with horses, as he treated them with kindness in stark contrast to their usual harsh treatment. Realizing the power of music to influence the horses, Konar devised a strategy to use this skill to aid the growing rebellion.
Konar aligned with the Noble Cult, a clandestine group working to overthrow Lyceus and restore justice. Their ultimate goal was to place Petrak on the throne as a wise and just ruler. However, Petrak was captured and imprisoned in a mythical cave known as the “Place of the Devils,” guarded by deadly serpents. This perilous location added an element of legend to Konar’s mission, emphasizing the stakes of his fight for freedom.
Public Domain Appearances[]
- Feature Funnies #15-18
Notes[]
Konar was the first barbarian character in American comic books.