Homo Magi - Publication History

Publication History

The Homo magi first appeared as "The Hidden Ones" in Justice League of America #164 (March 1979). They are referred to as Homo magus in issue #165, and as Homo magi in #166. In the storyline, New Justice League member Zatanna, is searching for her mother Sindella, along with her father Giovanni Zatara. The Homo magi returned in the pages of Secret Origins vol. 2 #27 (June 1988) written by Jean-Marc Lofficier (credited as Ehrich Weiss), Randy Lofficier, and Roy Thomas. The story titled "A Symphony of Shadows" features a Homo magi named Zatanna, who is searching for her mother Sindella, and provides the possible origins of Zatanna Zatara, Giovanni Zatara and Doctor Mist.

According to the Lofficiers, their story in Secret Origins that re-told the origins of the Homo magi was revised heavily prior to publication; this is their reason for using a pseudonym.

In the original plot, Nommo, a sorcerer from the Empire of Kor in Ancient Africa, (from H. Rider Haggard's "She") created the Flame of Life from the life forces gathered after the sinking of Atlantis. Nommo later fought Wotan (changed to Felix Faust by DC), unwittingly causing the destruction of Kor when he absorbed the full power of the Flame. Changing his name to Dr. Mist, Nommo embarked on a breeding plan to foster the creation of a race of sorcerers known as Homo magi. As part of his centuries - spanning scheme, Dr. Mist created the various Stones of Power used by Arak, Doctor Occult (not an Homo magi), Sargon, Zatara, etc. and the Global Guardians after World War II. Zatanna is the final product of Dr. Mist's plan for a perfect mate. But Wotan (Felix Faust) returns to steal his power and take revenge.