241 – Mercury, meet a New God

Superman meets the God Mercury in Superman #20, November 1943
Superman meets the God Mercury in Superman #20, November 1943

Speaking of over-powered god-like beings, the Roman God Mercury awakens in Superman #20 (November 1943) and causes mischief for Superman. Eventually, Superman takes scissors and snips off Mercury’s ankle and helmet wings… a little harsh! Humiliated, Mercury stops clowning around and helps clean up the mischief and goes back into hibernation for another 1,000 years.

It feels like the writers of Superman were searching for more interesting ways to challenge their over-powered character by this time.