Because all the cool kids are doing it

The Great Curve has asked for input on compiling the fifty best DC characters.

The call for entries does not include a precise definition of "best," so in keeping with the low-irony diet that this blog maintains, my list includes those characters with whom I connected the most in my comics-reading heyday: the characters who engaged me with their reality, made me feel a sense of wonder, and/or helped inform my sensibilities and ethics.

1. Martian Manhunter (J'onn J-onzz)



2. Superman (Kal-El)
3. Batman (Bruce Wayne)
4. Wonder Woman (Princess Diana)
5. Robin (Dick Grayson)
6. Sgt. Frank Rock
7. Iris Allen
8. Dr. Terry Thirteen
9. The Phantom Stranger
10. Atom (Ray Palmer)
11. Brainiac 5 (Qwerl Dox)
12. Ferro Lad (Andrew Nolan)
13. Enemy Ace (Rittmeister Baron Hans von Hammer)



14. Aquaman (Arthur Curry)
15. Mon-El (Lar Gand)
16. Flash (Barry Allen)
17. Balloon Buster (Lt. Steve Savage)
18. Manhunter (Paul Kirk)



19. The Creeper (Jack Ryder)
20. (Elongated Man) Ralph Dibny
21. Sue Dibny
22. Johnny Double
23. Captain William Storm
24. Hercules
25. Niles Caulder
26. Elastic Woman (Rita Farr)
27. Negative Man (Larry Trainor)
28. Robotman (Cliff Steele)
29. Supergirl (Linda Danvers)



30. Power Girl (Karen Starr)
31. Lori Lemaris
32. Polar Boy (Brek Brannin)
33. Iron
34. Gold
35. Mera
36. Wildcat (Ted Grant)
37. Hourman (Rex Tyler)
38. Starman (Ted Knight)
39. Manhunter 2070 (Starker)
40. Robin (Tim Drake)
41. Ambush Bug
42. Mlle. Marie
43. Pete Ross
44. Bat Lash
45. Jean Loring
46. Alfred Pennyworth
47. James Gordon
48. Liza Warner, Lady Cop
49. Snapper Carr
50. The Blimp (Herman Cramer)