Rivera Santos, Paola C.

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From villain to agent of Asgard: A not so heroic journey
(2021-07-01) Rivera Santos, Paola C.; Haydock, Nickolas; College of Arts and Sciences - Art; Romaguera, Gabriel; Irizarry Rodríguez, José M.; Department of English; Rodriguez, Grisell
This thesis focuses on a close study of the recent comic book and cinematic adaptations of the Marvel character Loki and how he is part of a redefining movement. The hero is going through a shift in definition and qualities. More and more stories feature protagonists who no longer fit the mold of the hero, and instead, antiheros are taking the spotlight. This thesis brings forth the possibility that these antiheros are in fact a new era of heroes in popular culture. In order to showcase this, The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell is used alongside Loki’s own journey during the cinematic Marvel Universe from his first appearance in Thor to Avengers: End Game, in addition to his comic book appearances in Loki: Journey into Mystery and Loki: Agent of Asgard. In short, this thesis draws parallels between Campbell’s journey and Loki’s journey, to demonstrate that despite their differences, they both end with the character becoming a hero. As a result, this puts into question the very definition of what it means to be a hero.