Blake and Mortimer is an iconic Franco-Belgian comic book series created in 1946 by the Belgian artist Edgar P. Jacobs. The saga begins with "The Secret of the Swordfish," published in the first issue of the journal Tintin, and recounts the captivating adventures of Captain Francis ...
Blake, an officer of the British MI5, and Professor Philip Mortimer, a renowned scientist. These two heroes remain at the heart of the universe, forming the series’ emblematic duo alongside their allies and companions.
The world of Blake and Mortimer is distinguished by a skillful blend of science fiction, espionage, and adventure, where complex plots and international conspiracies unfold. The stories also incorporate major scientific discoveries that enrich the narrative. Among the antagonists, Colonel Olrik occupies a prominent place. A multifaceted character, he embodies a recurrent and unpredictable threat that regularly jeopardizes our heroes’ plans.
In addition to the main duo, the series features a gallery of secondary characters that further enrich this universe. Various British secret service agents, occasional allies, and both historical and fictional figures mix into the investigations led by Blake and Mortimer, each contributing their expertise and reinforcing the saga’s narrative depth.
Blake personifies the ideal British gentleman, driven by an unwavering sense of honor and duty. Professor Mortimer stands out for his scientific curiosity and sharp mind, qualities that enable him to decipher sometimes inexplicable phenomena and provide ingenious solutions to the mysteries they encounter. Their complementarity forms the cornerstone of their adventures, allowing them to resolve mysteries and confront dangers with determination and ingenuity.
The series, which has managed to win over a wide audience in Europe and internationally, is distinguished by its original narrative style and its meticulous illustrations. After the death of Edgar P. Jacobs in 1987, several writers and artists—notably Jean Van Hamme, Ted Benoit, Yves Sente, and André Juillard—took over the series. They managed to preserve the authentic spirit of Blake and Mortimer while incorporating contemporary elements that keep this universe vibrant and relevant.
