Howard the Duck: Marvel's Unlikely and Powerful Hero

The Unlikely Origins of Howard the Duck

Created by writer Steve Gerber and artist Val Mayerik, Howard the Duck first appeared in Adventure into Fear #19 in 1973. Originally conceived as a secondary character in Man-Thing stories, he unexpectedly resonated with readers and soon became a pop culture phenomenon.

Appearance and Character

Visually, Howard resembles an anthropomorphic duck, described as verbally articulate, cynical, cigar-smoking, and usually dressed in a suit and tie. His no-nonsense attitude and absurdist adventures makes him an unlikely hero.

Life on Duckworld

Hailing from the planet Duckworld in the alternate universe designation Earth-791021, Howard lives a mostly normal life among his fellow ducks. Duckworld is similar to Earth, but inhabited by various anthropomorphic animals. Howard eventually becomes trapped on Earth-616 after a freak scientific accident.

Arrival on Earth

Various adventures inadvertently transport Howard through a cosmic vortex to Cleveland, Ohio on Earth-616. Finding himself suddenly stranded in a world he never made, Howard attempts to return home while adjusting to his new surroundings.

Fish Out of Water

His abrupt transition to Earth leaves Howard confounded by mundane customs like clothing, jobs, romance, and human social interaction. His rocking chair and favorite comic book issue #5 of Gecko Man are his only touches of home.

Beverly Switzler

Howard forms an unlikely but endearing friendship with fledgling artist Beverly Switzler. Beverly takes Howard under her wing, helping him navigate life on this strange new world, while Howard encourages Beverly's artistic ambitions.

Life on Earth

Howard's time on Earth puts him on a collision course with various villains like the cosmic menace Korrek, suicidal creations of the scientist Dr. Bong, and even supernatural threats like the cult leader Reverend Joon. Through cleverness and luck, Howard prevails every time.

Joining the Circus

At one point Howard joins the Circus of Crime as their accountant, hoping the steady paycheck will finance his return trip home. Instead, Howard helps Spider-Man defeat the circus and its ringmaster The Ringmaster.

Presidential Run

During a moment of absurdity, Howard embarks on a fake presidential campaign in 1976, using the slogan "Get Down, America!" Though initially a stunt, public support surges, forcing Howard to withdraw before accidentally getting elected.

Powers and Abilities

Despite his unassuming appearance, Howard has demonstrated some extraordinary abilities during his misadventures.

Master Martial Artist

Howard is an expert in "Quack-Fu", allowing him to defeat various armed opponents. He also shows proficiency with weapons like swords and shields.

Power Cosmic

After Exposure to a concentrated beam of the Power Cosmic, Howard temporarily gains god-like abilities including flight, strength, and invulnerability. Eventually the powers fade, but the experience leaves Howard changed.

Scientific Knowledge

Stranded in a different universe, Howard uses his surprising scientific skills to construct various devices to try and return home to no avail. However his expertise does help him out of several dangerous situations.

Cult Icon

Howard's popularity has exploded over the years. What started as an absurd supporting character became a pop culture icon inspiring everything from T-shirts to fan clubs to cosplay. He even starred in a 1986 movie adaptation culminating in huge box office success.

For a foul-mouthed duck stranded in a strange world, Howard has shown resilience andAdaptability equal to any traditional superhero. Through sheer tenacity he carves out a strange but meaningful life on Earth regardless of the challenges.

FAQs

Where is Howard the Duck from originally?

Howard the Duck hails from Duckworld, an alternate universe version of Earth where the dominant species are ducks and other anthropomorphic animals. He ends up transported to the main Marvel Earth through an accident.

What are Howard's main abilities?

Despite being an ordinary duck, Howard is a master martial artist in "Quack-Fu" allowing him to defeat armed opponents. He also demonstrates scientific knowledge and temporarily gains Power Cosmic abilities like flight and strength at one point.

Who is Beverly Switzler?

Beverly Switzler is an artist who first meets Howard after he is transported to Cleveland. She helps him adjust to life on Earth and they form a close friendship over their various misadventures.

Why did Howard run for President?

In 1976 Howard embarks on a fake presidential campaign as a publicity stunt using the slogan "Get Down, America!" However he ends up gaining unexpected public support and has to withdraw before accidentally getting elected.

What was Howard's job at the Circus of Crime?

At one point Howard becomes the accountant for the Circus of Crime criminal organization. However, he soon helps Spider-Man take down the Circus and its leader The Ringmaster.