Originally published in 1967, Corto Maltese: The Ballad of the Salt Sea introduces our hero for the first time. The story begins with Corto Maltese adrift at sea in the Pacific during World War I. He is picked up by a Russian pirate named Rasputin. The graphic novel follows Corto and the adventure that ensues. Treasure hunter, sailor and adventurer, Corto Maltese remains one of the most popular characters from graphic literature in Europe and maintains a devoted cult following among readers and creators. Created by Italian comics master Hugo Pratt, Corto Maltese is often cited as animportant influence on what the graphic novel has become today.
