DOCTOR STRANGE

Previously a Master of the Mystic Arts, Doctor Strange first ascended to the position of Sorcerer Supreme after the death of his mentor, the Ancient One, in Marvel Fanfare #10.

In Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme #49, Strange recited the Emancipation Incantation, relieving himself of all vows to the higher powers (Vishanti, Cyttorak, Watoomb, etc.) he had evoked in the past, in order to avoid being drafted into the War of the Seven Spheres. In practice, he was now drastic reduced in power and resources, unable to call upon outside mystical forces. This set up him losing his title to a former Sorceress Supreme, Salome of the Fallen, in #60. Circumstances forced Doctor Strange to retire to a pocket dimension, operating on Earth only through his agents, Strange and Vincent Stephens. He eventually returned in #75, beating Salome and reclaiming his role as Sorcerer Supreme.

During World War Hulk, Strange channeled the dark magick of an entity called Zom. The consequences led to him losing the title of Sorcerer Supreme following New Avengers Annual #2, leading to the search for the next Sorcerer in New Avengers (1st series) #51-54. Practically speaking, during this period, Strange retained the mystical knowledge of his years of experience but had the "hands of an amateur" when it came to casting spells. He was effectively limited to a smaller range of simpler spells. Doctor Strange reclaimed the role of Sorcerer Supreme (again) in New Avengers (2nd series) #34.

In the Death of Doctor Strange #1, Stephen was stabbed to death by Kaecilius. Through an earlier spell he cast, a younger version of the Master of the Mystic Arts was plucked out of time temporarily, until both the past and present Doctors were claimed by Death in #4. He served as Death's Harvestman in Strange (3rd series) #1-10 until she released her claim to him, returning Stephen to life.