The origin of The Eternals in Marvel Comics is one of the most fascinating and cosmic tales ever created by “The King” of comics himself, Jack Kirby. While many Marvel fans may not have known about the Eternals before their leap to the big screen, their roots in the comic book universe stretch back to the mid-1970s and carry massive importance in the grand design of Marvel’s mythology. Much like the Guardians of the Galaxy before their cinematic debut, the Eternals were once an obscure corner of Marvel lore—but their story is essential to understanding the very fabric of the Marvel Universe.
The Birth of the Eternals
The Eternals made their first appearance in The Eternals #1 in July 1976. Created, written, and illustrated by Jack Kirby, the series reflected Kirby’s signature mix of science fiction, mythology, and larger-than-life storytelling. At the heart of their origin lies the Celestials—an ancient race of cosmic gods who visited Earth millions of years ago.
During their visit, the Celestials performed genetic experiments on early life forms, specifically apes, altering the course of evolution itself. Their experiments produced three distinct offshoots of life:
- The Deviants – A genetically unstable and monstrous race. Each generation looked different from the last, giving them grotesque and unpredictable appearances. They thrived on war and destruction, retreating deep into Earth’s inner regions.
- Humans – A balanced and adaptable species, destined to inherit the Earth. Despite humanity’s destructive nature, they possessed the ability to build civilizations and seek peace.
- The Eternals – The true “children of the gods,” blessed with powers far beyond mortals and gifted with virtual immortality. Unlike humans, they were few in number, and unlike Deviants, they were stable and godlike in form.
This single act by the Celestials not only birthed the Eternals but also explained, within Marvel’s lore, the origins of humanity and its potential for superhuman abilities.
The Role of the Eternals
The Eternals separated themselves from the rest of Earth’s inhabitants, often retreating to high mountain peaks and remote places where they could probe the universe with their minds. Over time, they developed incredible powers—powers that surpassed all other beings on Earth.
Because of their abilities, they were regarded with awe and even worshipped as gods by early human civilizations. Meanwhile, the Deviants waged wars in the depths of the Earth, clashing with humanity and inspiring many of the monsters and myths that would shape ancient legends.
This cosmic balance—humans as the inheritors of Earth, Deviants as its destroyers, and Eternals as immortal overseers—became the backbone of their story.
Powers and Abilities of the Eternals
What truly makes the Eternals unique is the vast scope of their powers. Their bodies are infused with cosmic energy, giving them abilities such as:
- Superhuman strength, speed, and endurance
- Flight
- Telepathy and illusion-casting
- Teleportation
- Transmutation of matter (both organic and inorganic)
- The creation of force fields
- Accelerated healing
Perhaps most impressively, they maintain molecular control over their bodies, meaning they can survive and restore themselves even if their molecules are scattered across the planet. In short, they are virtually immortal—living embodiments of godlike beings among humans.
Prominent Members of the Eternals
While the Eternals are relatively few in number, several key figures stand out in their stories:
- Ikaris – One of the most well-known Eternals, often depicted as a central figure and leader-like presence.
- Sersi – A powerful Eternal with a knack for blending into human society, known for her transmutation powers.
- Ajak – A warrior Eternal who has often served as a priest-like communicator with the Celestials.
- Makkari – Famous for his incredible speed and curiosity about humanity.
- Thena – A fierce and noble Eternal warrior, often associated with ancient myths of Athena.
And, of course, Thanos, one of Marvel’s most famous villains, has ties to this mythology—being born of the Eternal line but carrying the Deviant gene, making him a hybrid of both races.
Where to Start Reading
If you’re curious to dive deeper into the Eternals in the comics, here are some great starting points:
Eternals by Neil Gaiman (a modern reimagining of the mythos)
The Eternals Vol. 1 by Jack Kirby (1976)
The Eternals Vol. 2 (continuing their early stories)
Eternals: To Slay a God
Eternals: Manifest Destiny
