Thor #361

Thor issue 361, published in November 1985, serves as a pivotal entry in the iconic run written and illustrated by Walter Simonson. This issue is part of the celebrated 'Frog of Thor' arc, a bold creative pivot where Simonson transformed the God of Thunder into an amphibian for several installments. The narrative choice reflected Simonson’s desire to infuse the long-running series with a sense of mythic whimsy and unexpected humor, challenging the conventional tone of superhero storytelling during that era.

The visual design of this issue captures the distinctive aesthetic that defined Simonson's tenure on the title, characterized by dynamic panel layouts, bold sound effects, and a stylized approach to Norse mythology. Upon its release, the storyline was received with surprise and eventual critical acclaim, as fans and critics alike praised Simonson's ability to maintain the gravity of Asgardian stakes while executing such an unconventional premise. It remains a hallmark of 1980s Marvel comics and is frequently cited as a high-water mark for the Thor character.