Battle Hymn (comics)

Battle Hymn is a comic book series created by B. Clay Moore and Jeremy Haun, published by Image Comics starting in 2004. The series tells the story of the Crusaders, a team of superheroes operating in the fictional city of San Futuro. The Crusaders are not only superheroes but also celebrities, enjoying fame and endorsements as much as they fight crime.

The central conflict revolves around the team's internal struggles with their public image, their personal lives, and the ethical implications of their actions. As the story progresses, the initial lighthearted facade of the Crusaders begins to crumble, revealing darker secrets and moral compromises beneath the surface.

Key characters include the team leader, Paragon, who struggles with the pressures of leadership and maintaining a perfect public persona; Tempest, a powerful weather manipulator burdened by a troubled past; and other members each grappling with their own set of personal issues.

The series is noted for its deconstruction of the superhero archetype, exploring themes of celebrity culture, corporate sponsorship, and the cost of heroism. It also delves into the complexities of interpersonal relationships within the team, showcasing rivalries, romantic entanglements, and the strain of living under constant scrutiny. "Battle Hymn" offers a cynical and often satirical look at the superhero genre, questioning the ideals of heroism and examining the human flaws hidden beneath the masks and costumes. The series ran for a limited number of issues.