Brendon by Claudio Chiaverotti

Brendon D’Arkness, by Claudio Chiaverotti

Brendon, created by Claudio Chiaverotti and published by Sergio Bonelli Editore, is a horror-fantasy series set in a post-apocalyptic world that combines medieval atmospheres with dark and magical elements. The story unfolds in an England devastated by the “Great Darkness,” a catastrophe that has thrown society back into a primitive and superstitious state, where magic and horrific creatures thrive. The protagonist, Brendon D’Arkness, is a tormented knight errant who navigates this degraded world with a personal mission and a highly individual sense of justice, which sometimes borders on controversy.

Brendon is an atypical hero, not so much for his physical strength as for his vulnerability and inner complexity. His personality is steeped in pain and remorse, and guilt accompanies him in his solitary wandering. Armed with a sword and a will of iron, he is driven by the desire to protect the weak, but often discovers that his goodness is not enough to resolve conflicts in a world where even the innocent can show ruthless sides. This makes him a deep and layered character, capable of reflecting the harshness and melancholy of the universe around him.

The visual aspect of *Brendon* is one of its strengths: the comic stands out for a dark and detailed graphic style, made up of chiaroscuro effects that accentuate the gothic and decaying atmosphere. The panels are rich with desolate landscapes, ruined castles, and faces marked by strong emotions, capturing the reader’s attention and conveying the sense of despair that permeates this world. The illustrators have expertly expressed the mix of horror and poetry that characterizes the narrative.

The theme of hope in a despair-dominated context is a central element in the series. Brendon is guided by an ideal that goes beyond self-preservation, never abandoning the possibility of a positive change, however small. Chiaverotti uses this character to explore the struggle between good and evil, often questioning the true nature of humanity and the thin line between justice and brutality.

A key element is the rivalry between Brendon and Mordha, a dark witch embodying the destructive use of power. Mordha represents everything Brendon detests, yet Chiaverotti suggests an attraction between the two, a dark allure that challenges Brendon’s morality. The conflict with Mordha thus becomes a metaphor for the temptations and inner challenges the protagonist must face.

In-depth spoiler alert, watch out, everyone!

One of the most touching episodes in the series concerns Nora, a childhood friend of Brendon who, after the Great Darkness, has become a monstrous creature. Brendon is forced to confront Nora, knowing he cannot let her live without endangering everyone around her. This heartbreaking moment reveals Brendon’s human side and the ruthlessness of the world he inhabits: he is willing to sacrifice everything for a balance between justice and survival.