Morpheus (Marvel Comics)
Morpheus is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics.
Publication history
Morpheus first appeared in Moon Knight #12, and was created by Doug Moench and Bill Sienkiewicz. The character subsequently appeared in Moon Knight #22-23, Moon Knight vol. 2 #3, Doctor Strange, Sorcerer Supreme #18, and Moon Knight: Resurrection War #2-4.Morpheus received an entry in the original The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe #7.
Fictional character biography
Robert Markham was born in New York City. He had an unprecedented viral infection that caused competitive inhibition of certain segments in his DNA in the process of replication. He consults Dr. Peter Alraune, who prescribes an experimental, untested drug. The drug reacts with Markham's DNA, causing a freakish appearance and the inability to sleep. Markham discovers that he no longer needs sleep, and that he now has a highly destructive psionic ability. He names himself Morpheus, the Greek god of sleep. Crazed, Morpheus seeks to punish Dr. Alraune, which brought him to the attention of Moon Knight, a wealthy vigilante. In the resulting fight, Morpheus is defeated.Nightmares
Under heavy sedation, Morpheus is taken to the Seaview Research Hospital. He is given an artificially-induced sleep period every day. This, for a time, results in normal dreams. Morpheus' brain undergoes further mutations. He establishes a mental link with Alraune. Through him, Morpheus projects nightmares into the minds of the unwilling. He eventually escapes from Seaview and seeks revenge on Moon Knight and Alraune. The doctor sacrifices himself in a successful effort to cancel out Morpeus' powers. He is returned to Seaview under heavy guard.Morpheus later awakes from his induced sleep due to a medication mix up. He holds hospital and Marlene hostage until Moon Knight intervenes.