Here are some comic books with prominent allusions, categorized by type:
Mythology & Literature:
* Fables (Vertigo): A modern-day fairytale where characters from classic tales live hidden amongst humans. Expect nods to Aesop, Grimm, and more.
* The Sandman (Vertigo): A vast and intricate narrative that draws heavily on mythology, literature, and philosophy, weaving together characters like Morpheus, the Corinthian, and Lucifer.
* Wonder Woman (DC): A constant source of mythologically inspired stories, blending the adventures of Diana with the pantheon of Greek Gods.
* Thor (Marvel): Thor's adventures are intertwined with Norse mythology, including the adventures of Odin, Loki, and the Valkyries.
* The Wicked + The Divine (Image): A modern take on Greek and Roman mythology, exploring the lives of reincarnated gods.
Pop Culture & History:
* Watchmen (DC): This masterpiece blends historical events with superhero narratives, referencing the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and real-life figures.
* Batman: Year One (DC): This graphic novel draws inspiration from noir films, placing Batman in a gritty and realistic Gotham City.
* The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (Marvel/ABC): A steampunk adventure featuring literary characters like Allan Quatermain, Mina Harker, and Dr. Jekyll, all engaging in action-packed missions.
* The Umbrella Academy (Dark Horse): A twisted take on the superhero genre, heavily inspired by the Beatles and featuring historical references.
* The Invisibles (Vertigo): A complex and psychedelic series exploring themes of magic, philosophy, and social change, with plenty of cultural references.
Other:
* The Invisibles (Vertigo): Though not exclusively relying on literary allusions, it draws from various sources, including Theosophy, Kabbalah, and the writings of Aleister Crowley.
* The Boys (Dynamite): This satirical superhero series constantly critiques pop culture, including comic book tropes, Hollywood, and consumerism.
Bonus:
* Anything by Neil Gaiman: From his work on The Sandman to his own series, Gaiman weaves complex stories with a wealth of literary and mythological references.
* Anything by Grant Morrison: From The Invisibles to his run on Batman, Morrison employs symbolism, allegory, and references to create layered narratives.
This is just a small sample, and there are many more comics out there filled with allusions. It's worth exploring different genres and creators to find your favorites!