100 Greatest Superhero Stories Ever
By Steve Lam
Image Courtesy of Marvel Comics
#54. Daredevil #168, #174–#182: “The Elektra Saga”
Medium
Comic Book
Release Dates
January 1981 (Daredevil #168)
September 1981–May 1982 (Daredevil #174–#182)
Credits
Writer: Frank Miller
Penciller: Frank Miller
Inker: Klaus Janson
Colorist:s Glynis Wein, Klaus Janson, D.R. Martin, Christie Scheele, Bob Sharen,
Letterer: Joe Rosen
Editors: Denny O’Neil, Ralph Macchio, Mark Gruenwald
The Reason It’s Great
Daredevil was already a dying title when Frank Miller took over the literary reins. However, in true Miller form, the title was soon revived and given a new start. This was done by creating and developing a character that fans grew to love—and, suddenly, ripping her away.
Elektra was introduced in Daredevil #168 (January 1981) as someone from Matt Murdock’s past—his first love. Elektra became an assassin after her father was brutally murdered. Returning to America, she meets Daredevil, who now hunts her as an enemy.
Elektra, a newly introduced character, was quickly embraced by fans—which helped Daredevil become a top seller. However, in Daredevil #181, Elektra was stabbed with her own sai by Bullseye and died in Matt’s arms.
The introduction and quick death of Elektra made a lasting impression on readers. Though Marvel promised Miller that Elektra would never be used again, the company found it difficult not to. She was soon revived. The fans loved it … Miller, not so much. But that’s another story.