Absolute Wonder Woman #20: The Enhanced Backstory of Cheetah and Wonder Woman
A significant change to a classic DC villain's backstory in Absolute Wonder Woman greatly enhances it. The new Absolute Universe concept revolves around minor alterations that have a major impact on DC Comics' characters. In this instance, the tweak serves to better explain the villain's betrayal of the Amazon princess Diana.
The alteration occurs in Absolute Wonder Woman #20, the concluding chapter of the "Season of the Witch" storyline penned by Kelly Thompson and illustrated by Hayden Sherman. The narrative unfolds as Diana faces an onslaught of magic-wielding assailants controlled by GATES Director Veronica Cale during a museum gala celebrating Amazon artifacts curated by Dr. Barbara Minerva. Following a confrontation, both women are apprehended.
In the traditional DC Universe, Dr. Barbara Minerva is best known for assuming the role of Cheetah. Initially introduced as an unscrupulous archaeologist/adventurer post-Crisis, Dr. Minerva fell victim to a curse while seeking the power of the god Urzkartaga. Subsequently targeting Wonder Woman in hopes of finding a cure through the Lasso of Truth.
The character's backstory underwent a revision after the 2016 DC Rebirth event. In the updated timeline, Dr. Minerva's focus shifted to studying ancient cultures and attempting to validate the existence of Amazons. Initially brought in to assist Diana in acclimating to the world of man, the two formed a close bond. However, Veronica Cale's interference prevented Dr. Minerva from seeking Diana's aid when she was bound to Urzkartaga during an expedition. This perceived betrayal led Barbara to become Wonder Woman's most formidable adversary.
The DC Rebirth revision aimed to streamline the origins of both Wonder Woman and Cheetah. By merging Dr. Minerva with Julia Kapatelis, Diana's mentor in the post-Crisis timeline, the connection between Diana and her archenemy was strengthened. Nonetheless, the change failed to fully justify Dr. Minerva's betrayal of her friend, a narrative challenge also present in the Wonder Woman 1984 film adaptation.
Absolute Wonder Woman #20 follows a similar narrative trajectory, with a crucial twist. Diana is unexpectedly rescued by a magical curse after consuming a pomegranate seed from Hades' garden. This curse allows her to visit her adoptive mother in the Underworld for one month annually, with no control over the timing. Veronica Cale seizes this opportunity, presenting Dr. Minerva with footage suggesting Diana's escape and exploiting Barbara's insecurities about their friendship, ultimately convincing her that Diana has abandoned her.
While the issue concludes before confirming Dr. Minerva's transformation into Cheetah, the storytelling effectively conveys Barbara's betrayal. This development sets the stage for the emergence of an Absolute Cheetah in future installments. Absolute Wonder Woman #20 is now available for purchase at comic book stores nationwide.
In conclusion, the revised backstory of Dr. Barbara Minerva in Absolute Wonder Woman #20 offers a compelling exploration of betrayal and transformation, setting the stage for a new chapter in the character's evolution as Cheetah. The nuanced storytelling and character dynamics in this issue provide a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between Wonder Woman and her most formidable adversary.