"Eternals" is a Marvel Comics superhero team created by writer and artist Jack Kirby. They made their debut in "Eternals" #1 in 1976. The Eternals are a group of immortal, super-powered beings created by cosmic entities known as the Celestials. These beings are tasked with defending Earth against the destructive forces of their counterparts, the Deviants.
Here is a brief story overview of the Eternals:
Long ago, the Celestials visited Earth and experimented on early humans, leading to the creation of three distinct groups: the Eternals, the Deviants, and ordinary humans. The Eternals were given incredible powers, immortality, and advanced technology, while the Deviants became a race of unstable, shape-shifting beings. Humans remained the most numerous species on Earth.
The Eternals, led by characters like Ikaris, Sersi, and Thena, lived in hidden cities and often kept a low profile among humans. They were forbidden from directly interfering in human affairs but occasionally protected humanity from the Deviants and other threats.
Over the centuries, the Eternals' existence remained a secret, and they often faced internal conflicts and doubts about their purpose. They struggled to reconcile their role as cosmic defenders with their desire for personal lives and relationships.
The modern Marvel Universe occasionally saw the Eternals becoming involved in larger events, such as battling cosmic villains like Thanos or aiding the Avengers and other superhero teams. Their stories often delved into cosmic and philosophical themes, including the nature of immortality and their connection to the Celestials.
In the comics, the Eternals' history, powers, and personalities have been explored in various story arcs and series. They are a complex and enigmatic group of characters with a rich mythology in the Marvel Universe.
It's worth noting that a live-action film titled "Eternals," part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), was released in 2021. The film introduces the Eternals to a broader audience and explores their role in the MCU's ever-expanding narrative.