Aquaman

Aquaman #2 (2016)

Comic Books Library
by Comic Books Library August 03, 2025
Aquaman #2 (2016)


Aquaman #2 (2016) – A Deepening Tide of Conflict

Genre

🌍 Superhero, Action, Political Thriller, Fantasy
"Aquaman #2" blends traditional superhero elements with political intrigue, exploring diplomacy, revenge, and leadership beneath the waves.

Main Characters

  • Aquaman / Arthur Curry – The half-human, half-Atlantean ruler striving to unify two worlds.

  • Black Manta – Aquaman’s most relentless enemy, driven by vengeance and personal loss.

  • Mera – Warrior queen of Atlantis and Arthur’s steadfast ally and partner.

  • Lt. Joanna Stubbs – A British Royal Navy officer caught in the crossfire of Atlantean-human diplomacy.

Writer

✍️ Dan Abnett
A seasoned comic book writer known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy and Titans, Abnett brings political nuance and emotional complexity to Aquaman's world.

Artist

🎹 Scot Eaton
Eaton’s expressive line work and detailed action sequences bring the tension of land-sea conflict to life, enriching the story’s emotional stakes.

Editor Details

🛠️ Editor: Brian Cunningham
Cunningham ensures narrative cohesion across the Rebirth lineup, balancing editorial vision with creative storytelling.

Publisher and Brand

🏱 Publisher: DC Comics
🔖 Brand: DC Universe – Rebirth
Rebirth aimed to re-establish the core essence of DC's heroes, and Aquaman's arc reaffirms his place as a noble and misunderstood king.

Release Year

📅 2016

Brief Plot Summary

In Chapter Two of “The Drowning” arc, Aquaman’s hopes for peace take a devastating hit. As he establishes a surface-world Atlantean embassy to foster unity, Black Manta launches a vicious assault. The embassy is left in ruins, and Aquaman is confronted by a truth he can't ignore: not everyone wants peace. Tensions erupt both diplomatically and personally, as Arthur is forced to reckon with the price of his ideals. Mera’s presence adds both emotional grounding and fierce combat power, but the scale of Manta’s fury threatens to spiral into international catastrophe.

Notable Arcs or Storylines

🌀 “The Drowning” arc explores not just battles, but the ideological war between coexistence and revenge. It’s a foundational storyline in Aquaman’s Rebirth run, redefining his role as a bridge between worlds.

Fan Theories or Interpretations

đŸ€” Some fans speculate that Black Manta’s extreme actions may be manipulated by darker forces in Atlantis or beyond—possibly even factions within the Trench or other deep-sea entities. Others interpret Arthur’s embassy destruction as a critique of real-world geopolitical tensions, where idealism is often crushed by old vendettas and fear of the unknown.

Review Summary

🎯 Aquaman #2 delivers a thrilling, emotionally layered issue with high stakes and sharp dialogue. Dan Abnett crafts Arthur as a regal yet grounded leader, torn between duty and diplomacy. Scot Eaton’s art is dynamic, especially during the explosive action scenes, and Mera shines as more than just a supporting figure. The character dynamics feel authentic, and the emotional weight behind Black Manta’s vendetta adds depth to a classic rivalry. This issue keeps the political intrigue bubbling just beneath the surface while raising the personal stakes with each page.

⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 – Engaging storytelling, rich visuals, and timely themes. A standout early chapter in Aquaman's Rebirth saga. 🌊👑🗡️


Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)

Aquaman #2 (2016)
Language : English