Abe Sapien versus Science

Abe Sapien versus Science is a short story written by Mike Mignola and drawn by Matthew Dow Smith (credited as Matt Smith) with Mignola on inks.

Publication History

Abe Sapien versus Science was first published as the backup story to Hellboy: Box Full of Evil #2 in September 1999. The story was collected in the trade paperback B.P.R.D.: Hollow Earth & Other Stories in January 2003.

Synopsis

Two scientists try to reanimate Roger by shocking him with electricity. Roger was last seen in Almost Colossus where he gave Liz Sherman back her power. This saved Liz's life, but left Roger lifeless again. One scientist suggests that they try to apply more power to the homunculus, but the other replies that the body is dead. They decide that they will learn more by dissecting the creature.

Abe Sapien overhears this and remembers back to March 2, 1979. The same two scientists stand in front of Abe, still lifeless in his tube. After trying to revive him, one wants to dissect Abe to learn more. The other thinks that it would be worth trying to shock Abe to life. The other says he will allow it, but only once, and then its back to dissection.

Back in the present, the two scientists decide to take a break before operating. While they are gone, Abe reroutes more power and tries to revive Roger. The extra power knocks out the lights in the area, and the scientists quickly return to their lab. They see that Roger is alive, and are about to call security. Abe tells them to leave Roger alone. Roger looks and waves to the men.

Story Chronology

The exact date is unclear; Hellboy: The Companion places the story in November of 1997.

The story takes place after Almost Colossus but before The Right Hand of Doom.

Content

Characters

• B.P.R.D.
  • Doctor Cobb
  • Doctor Roddel
  • Abraham Sapien
  • Hellboy (Mentioned)
• Roger

Locations

• U.S.A.
  • B.P.R.D. Headquarters (Farfield, CT)