(Image Source: DC / Carla Cohen)
Of all the classic DC superheroes adapted for the Absolute Universe, Absolute Wonder Woman is perhaps the most changed. In this reality, the last of the Amazons is more witch than warrior. While she can swing a sword, she depends more on sorcery. However, a preview of her latest adventure reveals one thing she has in common with the original Wonder Woman. It also reveals a new power she has that is both a blessing and a curse.
Written by Kelly Thompson, with art by Hayden Sherman, Absolute Wonder Woman #19 opens with a flashback to the Greek underworld. It is here that a young Diana grew to womanhood, learning magic from her adopted mother, Circe. Earlier flashbacks revealed that Diana also underwent training at the hands of various goddesses, including Athena, Artemis, and Hecate.
A conversation between Aphrodite and Circe reveals that the goddesses have done more than teach Diana. They also put a part of their power into the last Amazon. However, as is usually the case with the gifts of Gods in Greek myth, there is also a price to be paid.
The main cover and first four pages of Absolute Wonder Woman #19 may be viewed below.
What is the downside of Absolute Wonder Woman’s new power?
Aphrodite reveals to Circe that her essence has given Diana a magical form of glamour. It is not enough to fully control the hearts of mortals, but will increase her natural charisma and ability to win others over. However, this gift comes with a terrible price; Diana can never be fully sure if people truly love her for herself or because the blessing making her inherently loveable.
This is an interesting twist on both Ancient Greek myth and the modern Wonder Woman origins. In the Post-Crisis timeline, Diana’s powers came from the blessings of several Greek gods. Most of them were enhanced versions of the inherent abilities of the Amazons, such as the strength and endurance of the Earth from Demeter. Some, however, gave her special abilities, such as the power of flight from Hermes. The idea that each blessing might have a related curse fits the Greek mythology that inspired Wonder Woman well.
Absolute Wonder Woman #19 arrives in comic shops everywhere on April 22, 2026.
