Aquaman #21 (1996), written by Peter David with art by Jim Calafiore, is a pivotal issue in the 1990s Aquaman saga that deepens the character’s mythos and explores his ongoing quest for redemption. This issue continues the darker, more mature tone of Peter David’s legendary run on Aquaman, with Arthur Curry dealing with the consequences of his past actions, both as a king and a hero.

In this issue, Aquaman faces the haunting repercussions of his previous choices as he tries to balance his responsibilities as the ruler of Atlantis and his moral compass as a protector of the oceans. The narrative highlights his internal struggle with his identity—caught between his surface world origins and his Atlantean heritage. Arthur’s relationships with key characters like Mera and Orm (his half-brother, also known as Ocean Master) are intricately explored, showcasing both personal conflict and political intrigue.

The artwork by Jim Calafiore is dynamic and engaging, bringing a sense of depth to both the action and emotional scenes. His expressive character designs and intricate underwater settings bring the lush world of Atlantis to life, perfectly complementing Peter David’s dark, thought-provoking script. The pacing of the story keeps readers on edge, balancing quiet, introspective moments with intense action sequences.

For readers who appreciate the grittier, more complex side of Aquaman, Aquaman #21 (1996) is a must-read. It’s a defining chapter in the journey of Arthur Curry, showing a hero forced to confront his past mistakes while grappling with his dual identity as a king and a protector of the seas. Peter David’s run on Aquaman is widely regarded as one of the best in comic book history, and this issue continues to demonstrate why.