The Avengers #189
Published and © by Marvel, November 1979
Title: “Wings and Arrows!”
Synopsis: Hawkeye takes a new job as a security chief at Cross Technological Enterprises and soon tangles with Deathbird.
Writers (plot): Mark Gruenwald, Roger Stern and Steven Grant
Writer (script): Grant
Penciler: John Byrne
Inker: Dan Green
Review: The “angry white male” might not yet have been a voting block back in 1979 but, wow, would they have had their hero in Hawkeye. The avenging archer is seriously dislikable here. Angry at being replaced in the Avengers by the Falcon, Hawkeye soon lands a new gig where he can kick back, drink coffee and gaze longingly at centerfolds while at work. Petulant and privileged, the newly minted security chief soon battles Deathbird, making sure to sexually assault the “dame” once she’s captive. This issue’s misogynistic tone wastes another strong art job from John Byrne and Dan Green.
Grade: B-
Cool factor: It’s always cool to see John Byrne drawing The Avengers.
Not-so-cool factor: This story is a rough read from the perspective of the post-#MeToo era.
Notable: David Michelinie is credited for “creative kibitzing.”
Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 12p British variant of this issue. … According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.
Character quotable: “I’m Hawkeye, lady – and I’ve got arrows that will bring down even a super-strong bird lady!” – Hawkeye, gimmicky manly man
Editor’s note: This review was written Oct. 15, 2021.
