The Goblin – A Horror and Humor Hybrid from the Final Days of Warren Magazines

The Goblin was a horror comic series published by Warren Magazines in 1982, during the final days of the publisher. Spanning three issues, the series was known for its unique blend of horror and humor, with tongue-in-cheek stories that often mixed supernatural elements with comedic twists. The series featured veteran artist Lee Elias (who had previously worked on The Black Cat in the late 1940s and 1950s) as the main illustrator, adding his signature style to the gothic visuals and darkly humorous storytelling.

The main story followed a teenager from Harlem who discovers a book of magic incantations, transforming into the supernatural Goblin. Chaos ensues when his younger brother also finds the book, resulting in a series of disastrous events including the accidental summoning of alien invaders and a battalion of soldiers. In addition to the main narrative, The Goblin also included humorous strips like “Wizard Wormglow”, as well as a color comic section featuring “Troll Patrol”.

For fans of quirky horror comics and those who enjoy a combination of humor and supernatural chaos, The Goblin remains a memorable piece of 1980s comic history. A must-read for collectors interested in the final era of Warren Magazines and fans of Lee Elias’ distinctive art style.