Warning! Spoilers ahead for The Other History of the DC Universe #3
In the latest issue of DC Comics' Judas Contract storyline and his incredibly problematic relationship with Tara Markov - providing a unique moment in the present where DC Comics is actually critical of its own controversial past
In The Other History of the DC Universe #3 from writer John Ridley with art by Giuseppe Camuncoli, Katana narrates her own personal history as well as her unique perspective on the DC Universe's history during the '80s. One part, in particular, reveals Tatsu Yamashiro's frustration with how history has generally viewed Tara Markov, the Titan-turned-traitor also known as Terra who secretly worked with Slade Wilson's Deathstroke to infiltrate the Teen Titans in The Judas Contract. However, the story was highly controversial due to Wilsons's sexual relationship with Tara, who at the time was underage, being only 15 years old.
Unfortunately, Katana points out the problematic perspective the majority of the public has in ing Tara, as "history has a convenient way of blaming the victim." Terra truly was a victim, as she was continually manipulated and raped by Wilson, who used his influence and dominance to get her to do what he wanted, such as betraying the Teen Titans. However, Deathstroke has still been seen with a modicum of respect and iration in spite of these terrible actions, while Terra has been seen as nothing more than a traitor.
Remarkably, this cult following of Deathstroke and unfair remembrance of Terra might not just be limited to those living within the DC Universe. There have been stories written since The Judas Contract that have portrayed Slade Wilson as being a man with a code of honor with potentially redeemable qualities as a result, all while conveniently forgetting this stark fact and time showing why that type of depiction is so wrong and problematic.
It's actually quite refreshing to see DC Comics allowing Ridley to shine a spotlight on some of its more controversial and problematic moments in The Other History of the DC Universe such as this one, as well as other moments like the possible reasons behind Batman's formation of the Outsiders, as well as Superman's potentially flawed mentorship of Supergirl (or lack thereof) when she first came to Earth. Regardless, while Slade Wilson's Deathstroke is certainly a dynamic and complex villain, he should never be seen as anything more than a villain due to his terrible actions.
