10 DC Characters Derived From Ancient Myth
8. Lucifer Morningstar
Various versions of Lucifer, including more classical mythological depictions, have appeared in DC comics over time. This particular version, named Lucifer Samael Morningstar, was brought to the page by Neil Gaiman, first showing up in 1989’s The Sandman.
Starting with a similar approximation of the traditional Luciferian myth, this character is given Hell to preside over in DC comics. But he has ambitions beyond this, and leaves to chase the throne of godliness over his own universe.
Regarding his origins in classical myth, the name ‘Lucifer’ means ‘Light-bringer’, and is the name used in Latin for Venus, the planet referred to as the morning star in ancient Rome.
Depictions of Lucifer vary across cultures and texts. Most prominently in contemporary understanding he is conceptualised as the angel who falls from heaven to become the Devil. However, it is somewhat ambiguous as to what has led people to start referring to him by the name ‘Lucifer’ within a Christian context.