Hawkman
Origins
Hawkman is a fictional superhero appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Created by writer Gardner Fox and artist Dennis Neville, Hawkman first appeared in Flash Comics #1, published by All-American Publications in 1940. Several incarnations of Hawkman have appeared in DC Comics, all of them characterized by the use of archaic weaponry and large, artificial wings, attached to a harness made from the special Nth metal that allows flight. Most incarnations of Hawkman work closely with a partner/romantic interest named Hawkgirl or Hawkwoman.
Character Biography
Golden Age
The original Hawkman was Carter Hall, an archaeologist who discovered that he was the reincarnation of the ancient Egyptian prince, Khufu. Hall is presented with a mysterious Nth metal, which has anti-gravity capabilities. By crafting a belt from this metal, he gains the power of flight, while a pair of wings on his helmet and bare chest complete the iconic look. His weapons of choice are archaic: a mace, sword, and shield, which he uses to fight crime.
Silver Age
In the Silver Age of comics, Hawkman was reinvented as an alien police officer from the planet Thanagar, named Katar Hol. Along with his wife, Shayera Hol (Hawkgirl), they come to Earth in pursuit of criminals and decide to stay and study Earth's police methods. The Silver Age Hawkman and Hawkgirl become members of the Justice League of America, where they often fight alongside the greatest heroes of the era.
Post-Crisis
In the wake of the continuity-altering Crisis on Infinite Earths, the histories of Carter Hall and Katar Hol were merged, creating a complex tapestry of a character, who is both an ancient Egyptian prince and an alien police officer. This Hawkman struggles with his memories and identities, often leading to periods of aggression and confusion.
The New 52 and Rebirth
In DC's New 52 and Rebirth initiatives, Hawkman's origins were once again revised. Carter Hall is now portrayed as an archaeologist turned adventurer who is drawn into a cosmic battle against the forces of the dark multiverse. He is once again a member of the Justice League and is a key player in the events of the "Dark Nights: Metal" storyline.
Powers and Abilities
Hawkman's powers include flight, superhuman strength, and a high degree of invulnerability. His Nth metal belt allows him to control his density, and he can also heal rapidly from injuries. Furthermore, he is an expert hand-to-hand combatant and uses a variety of archaic weapons, most notably a mace made from Nth metal. Hawkman is also a skilled detective with a keen analytical mind, and he has a vast knowledge of different civilizations and cultures from his past lives.
Legacy
Hawkman's legacy extends beyond his own adventures. His partner, Hawkgirl, has been a central character in many stories, and their eternal love story is a recurring theme in the comics. The concept of reincarnation and the mystery of the Nth metal have been explored in depth in various series. Hawkman's character and mythos have also influenced other characters in the DC Universe, such as the Atom and Doctor Fate.
In Other Media
Hawkman has appeared in numerous cartoon television shows and video games. He has been a member of the Justice League in the animated series of the same name and has appeared in episodes of "Smallville" and "The Flash". In video games, Hawkman appears in "Justice League Heroes", "DC Universe Online", and "Injustice: Gods Among Us", among others.