How did John alter the Ruby in Sandman?
John Byrne, a renowned comic book artist, made significant alterations to the Ruby in Neil Gaiman’s “Sandman” series. The Ruby, a powerful entity personified as a woman, holds immense power and influence over the dreams of its possessor. Byrne’s reinterpretation of the character brought a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of her role within the series.
In the original “Sandman” series, the Ruby was depicted as a seductive and mysterious figure who possessed a strong connection to the dream realm. However, Byrne’s take on the character introduced a more complex and nuanced portrayal. One of the most notable changes he made was to her appearance.
Under Byrne’s pen, the Ruby’s appearance shifted from a conventional, ethereal beauty to a more striking and imposing figure. Her hair, which was originally long and flowing, was now depicted as a cascading waterfall of red, symbolizing her connection to the Ruby. Her eyes, once a soft shade of blue, were now a piercing red, reflecting her power and intensity.
Another significant alteration Byrne made was to the Ruby’s personality. In the original series, she was a character who often played the role of a seductress, manipulating others for her own gain. Byrne, however, delved deeper into her character, revealing a more complex and conflicted individual. He portrayed her as someone who struggled with her own desires and fears, making her more relatable and sympathetic to readers.
Moreover, Byrne’s reinterpretation of the Ruby also highlighted her connection to the other characters in the series. He showcased her relationships with characters like Morpheus, the Sandman, and Death, emphasizing the dynamics between them and the impact they had on her journey. This not only enriched the story but also solidified the Ruby’s place within the larger narrative of “Sandman.”
In addition to these changes, Byrne also reimagined the Ruby’s origin story. In the original series, her creation was a result of a magical ritual performed by Morpheus. Byrne, on the other hand, presented a more tragic and poignant backstory. He revealed that the Ruby was once a mortal woman who was cursed by Morpheus, transforming her into the powerful being she became. This new origin story added depth to her character and provided a more emotional connection to her plight.
In conclusion, John Byrne’s alterations to the Ruby in “Sandman” brought a fresh and compelling perspective to the character. By changing her appearance, personality, and origin story, Byrne managed to create a more complex and relatable character, solidifying her place within the rich tapestry of Neil Gaiman’s dreamworld. His reinterpretation of the Ruby remains a testament to his artistic vision and his ability to breathe new life into established characters.
