This character is, for me, a close second to the Confessor. If I knew more of his back story, he might well be my favorite. I may be at odds with myself on this one, though, because a large part of his appeal is wrapped up in the mystery which surrounds him. He has a spirit-like quality and rather undefined powers. He requires no food or water and receives no bodily injuries. He can change size as he floats in mid-air.
He is the guardian of Shadow Hill, an Astro City neighborhood beset by supernatural forces.
He appears to those in need, communicating with them telepathically and comforting them in the process.
“I go where I am needed – and tonight, one of the places I am needed is here.”
The Hanged Man is centuries old. Sightings of him extend back into the Middle Ages. He makes significant cameo appearances in a number of stories, including Life in the Big City, Confession, and an award-winning short story titled The Nearness of You which is added to the end of the latter. Look him up. This good fellow knows how to take care of business.
PNEUMYTHOLOGY 