The Avengers #118

The Avengers issue 118, published in December 1973, arrived during a transformative period for Marvel Comics as the series navigated the transition between the expansive cosmic scope of the late 1960s and the more grounded, character-driven narratives of the mid-1970s. This issue stands as a notable entry in the 'Avengers-Defenders War' storyline, a complex crossover event orchestrated by writers Steve Englehart and Len Wein. The narrative was designed to challenge the ideological differences between the two premier super-hero teams, pitting them against one another through the manipulation of the cosmic entities Dormammu and Loki.

The artwork for this issue was provided by Bob Brown, a veteran Marvel contributor known for his clean, classic aesthetic, with inks by Sal Buscema. The cover, featuring an iconic and dramatic clash between the teams, was illustrated by Jim Starlin. Starlin’s inclusion was particularly significant, as his distinctively bold, slightly surreal style was beginning to define the visual language of Marvel's cosmic titles. At the time of its release, the issue was well-received by fans of the era for its ambitious scale and for successfully juggling a large ensemble cast of legendary characters.