The Defining Decade: Thanos’ Top 10 Crucial Moments

Thanos: From Villain-of-the-Week to Marvel Comics’ Most Iconic Supervillain

By | May 17, 2021

The Journey of Thanos

Thanos, the menacing villain who has captured the imagination of Marvel fans, did not start out as the universally recognized supervillain he is today. Initially introduced as a mere “villain-of-the-week” in the pages of Iron Man, Thanos gradually emerged as one of the most iconic villains in comic book history through a series of defining moments and storylines. In this article, we will explore the top 10 crucial moments that shaped and defined the character of Thanos.

1. Iron Man Debut

Thanos made his first appearance in Invincible Iron Man #55, where he was presented as a formidable foe and a threat to Iron Man’s existence. However, this initial encounter only scratched the surface of Thanos‘ true potential as a universal menace.

2. Thanos Quest

In the storyline “Thanos Quest,” Thanos‘s villainous status was truly solidified. This narrative, written by Jim Starlin and illustrated by Ron Lim, delved into Thanos‘ obsession with the Infinity Gems. Thanos embarks on a quest to collect all six Soul Gems, which would grant him the power to wipe out half the universe and please his one true love, Mistress Death.

3. Infinity Gauntlet

“Infinity Gauntlet,” written by Jim Starlin and illustrated by George Pérez, showcases Thanos achieving ultimate success. Having obtained the Infinity Gems, Thanos uses them to annihilate half of all life in the universe with a simple snap of his fingers. This moment exemplifies the sheer magnitude of his power and places him at the center of a conflict that reveals the insignificance of Earth’s mightiest heroes.

4. Infinity Watch

Following the events of “Infinity Gauntlet,” Adam Warlock forms the Infinity Watch, a group entrusted with safeguarding the individual Infinity Stones. Surprisingly, Thanos becomes a member of this group, showcasing the burgeoning relationship between Warlock and Thanos and adding depth to Thanos‘ character.

5. Introduction of Thane

Thane, Thanos‘ biological son, makes his debut in New Avengers #10. Unlike Nebula and Gamora, who were adopted by Thanos for his own purposes, Thane’s existence holds significant importance to Thanos. This new character sheds light on Thanos‘ history and presents a challenger to his position of power.

6. Eternals Retcon

Over the course of Thanos‘ existence, his origin story has undergone several retcons. Initially introduced as a member of the Titan race, it was later revealed that Thanos was actually an Eternal with Deviant Syndrome. However, the final and official retcon, as depicted in “Eternals Vol. 5 #12,” establishes that Thanos was the result of deliberate experimentation merging Eternal and Deviant DNA. This retcon imbues Thanos‘ appearance and existence with greater significance and purpose.

7. Thanos Rising

In “Thanos Rising,” written by Jason Aaron and illustrated by Simone Bianchi, readers witness the twisted origins of Thanos. His obsession with Death, which was previously attributed to a mixture of his lineage, is revealed as a result of the living embodiment of Death subtly manipulating him throughout his life. This storyline provides deeper insight into Thanos‘ character and the traumatic experiences that shaped him.

8. Learning the Truth About His Parents

An important moment in Thanos‘ life occurs in Eternals Vol. 5, where he discovers that his parents are alive and will remain so as long as Earth exists. This revelation elicits a mix of anger and helplessness, forcing Thanos to confront the perpetual presence of parents who had previously despised and attempted to kill him. This realization humanizes Thanos and highlights his vulnerability, portraying him not as a maniacal supervillain but as a scared child seeking solace in Death.

9. Raising Gamora

Gamora, now a widely recognized Marvel Comics hero thanks to her portrayal in the MCU by Zoe Saldana, has a complex history with Thanos. In Thanos Vol. 3, it is revealed that Thanos raised Gamora as his adopted daughter, training her to become the deadliest assassin in the galaxy. The reason for this intense training is to prepare her to eventually eliminate a future threat, Magus, on Thanos‘ behalf. This revelation adds layers to Thanos‘ character and deepens his obsession with cultivating a lethal warrior.

10. Thanos Wins

Finally, “Thanos Wins,” a storyline set in an alternate reality, showcases Thanos at the height of his destructive power. In this narrative by Donny Cates and Geoffrey Shaw, Thanos brings ruin to the entire universe, subjugating or annihilating iconic Marvel characters. “Thanos Wins” represents the culmination of every storyline in which Thanos has appeared, solidifying his position as Marvel Comics’ most memorable supervillain.

The Evolution of Thanos

Although these ten moments do not encompass the entirety of Thanos‘ complex journey, they serve as significant milestones that propelled him from a minor antagonist to the forefront of Marvel Comics’ pantheon of supervillains. Thanos‘ character evolution, from his obsession with the Infinity Gems to his intricate relationship with Death and his complicated family dynamics, has captivated readers for decades. These defining moments showcase the depth and complexity of Thanos as a character, elevating him to legendary status within the Marvel Universe.

Editorial: The Impact of Thanos

Thanos‘ transformation from a throwaway villain to a cultural icon reflects the enduring appeal of morally complex characters. His journey reminds us that villains, like heroes, are not monolithic but possess layers of depth and motivation. Thanos‘ obsession with power and his twisted understanding of love make him a multidimensional figure, resonating with readers who appreciate nuance and ambiguity in storytelling. Moreover, his popularity demonstrates the enduring power of morally ambiguous characters who challenge conventional notions of good and evil.

Advice to Marvel Comics

The success of Thanos highlights the importance of investing in character development and compelling storylines. Marvel Comics should continue crafting complex and nuanced villains who go beyond simple archetypes. By exploring the motivations, origins, and relationships of these supervillains, Marvel can create narratives that captivate readers and deepen their understanding of the Marvel Universe.

Furthermore, Marvel Comics should actively embrace diverse voices and perspectives, ensuring that their characters, heroes, and villains reflect the complexity and diversity of the world we live in. By telling stories that resonate with audiences from various backgrounds, Marvel can continue to engage readers and expand its fan base.