The Real Villain of the Green Lantern Corps Are the Guardians of the Universe

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In various captivating tales, from “Emerald Twilight” to “Blackest Night”, and all that lies in between, Green Lanterns have kept readers spellbound. Time and again, we find ourselves enamored with these narratives. The latest interpretation of the Green Lantern cosmos found within “Absolute Green Lantern” is no exception. Though the series has spawned countless villains over the years, one has been subtly menacing all along. Although the Guardians of the Universe may present themselves as champions of the universe’s welfare, they have orchestrated some of the most disastrous decisions, leading to catastrophes and calamities on numerous planets and sectors.

Historically, the Guardians of the Cosmos dwell on a planet named Oa. It is from here that they oversee and direct the Green Lantern Corps, offering commands and advice. Their objective has always been crystal clear: to maintain order throughout the cosmos. Interestingly, these Guardians have an unusual policy – they are against emotions, thinking it might interfere with their duties (surprisingly so). Consequently, they aim for detachment, often overlooking the irony of their situation. While this may help them make logical decisions, it has also allowed for cold, calculated actions, as they perceive themselves superior to any being with feelings.

Self-Appointed Lawmakers & Enforcement

It might initially appear that the Guardians of the Universe are beyond reproach. Yet, their own chronicles paint a dubious picture at best. These entities have bestowed upon themselves the role of cosmic lawmakers and enforcers, essentially operating without any form of oversight or accountability. In simpler terms, no higher authority checks them to ensure they handle situations ethically. It’s not too difficult to imagine how such a situation could lead to problems.

Due to the fact that the Keepers of the Cosmos bestowed upon themselves such authority, they have been devising laws, forming space law enforcement (the Green Lantern Corps), and apprehending individuals. However, there are moral dilemmas that need to be addressed in this scenario. To begin with, they are arresting beings who might not have consented or even comprehended the regulations. Secondly, it’s presumed that imprisonment is fair, ensuring humane treatment for prisoners. The case of Volthoom contradicts this belief: he was incarcerated for 10 billion years. Such prolonged confinement can potentially transform anyone into a more malevolent figure.

Targeting Magic, Conducting Questionable Experiments, and More

Over time, the Guardians have dabbled in various inventions and undertakings. They may be renowned for crafting the Central Power Battery used by Green Lanterns, but it’s just one of their many accomplishments. However, it raises concerns when we learn that a fear entity called Parallax is imprisoned within the Central Battery.

At one point, the Keepers of Cosmic Power viewed magic as inherently evil and sought to suppress it. Their method? They aimed to contain most of it within an artifact known as the Starheart. Unbeknownst to them, their actions continued to reflect a pattern of misjudgment, a pattern that seemed to be recurring frequently.

Lastly, let’s remember that the Guardians have been engaged in experimental work spanning thousands of years. This has often involved subjecting unwilling participants to cruel treatments such as torture and mutilation, under the guise of “advancement” and “structure.” Their experiments range from developing the Psions, witnessing the birth of the universe, and notably, the creation of the Manhunters.

The Hand Behind the Manhunters

It can’t be disputed that there are numerous destructive elements throughout the expansive DC Universe. Among them, the Manhunters stand out as particularly devastating. Initially designed by the Guardians to uphold their justice, these robotic enforcers share some similarities with the Green Lantern Corps. However, things took a turn for the worse over time. The Manhunters served the Guardians diligently for hundreds of years, but ultimately, their loyalty turned against them.

Over time, the Manhunters grew fixated on the thrill of the chase rather than ensuring justice was being served. Initially designed to pursue and apprehend criminals, they became overly zealous in their mantra “None can evade the Manhunters.” This obsession eventually led them to perform an atrocious deed, a massacre that came to be known as the Sector 666 Tragedy. The destruction was so total that only five individuals managed to survive.

The individuals who lived through this massacre would come to see the Guardians as among their foes. Referred to as the Five Incursions, they sought retribution from the Guardians for the chaos they had caused. A notable member of this group is Atrocitus. Essentially, it can be said that the Guardians bear some blame for one of the Green Lanterns’ most formidable adversaries. Over time, it appears that the Guardians have unwittingly fostered villains and enemies.

As we delve deeper into the actions of the Guardians of the Universe, it’s increasingly apparent that this group may not have the universe’s best interests at heart. Their belief in their own superiority borders on arrogance, making them more akin to antagonists than heroes. Even more concerning is their stubborn refusal to acknowledge and rectify their errors.

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2025-07-13 03:10