Warning! Spoilers ahead for Marvel’s One World Under Doom event!
As Doctor Doom leads the combined forces of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes against the invading army of Dormammu’s demons, he has been paid the ultimate compliment by the God of Thunder, as Thor declares Doom fit for Avengers membership. Though this is unlikely to come to pass, it is a reminder of how thin the line between villain and hero can be in the Marvel Universe.
One World Under Doom #5, written by Ryan North, with art by R.B. Silva, continues the massive Marvel Comics event series, with the heroes of Earth setting aside their differences with Doom, who currently rules the entire planet as Emperor, in order to him into battle against a greater threat.
While many heroes remain skeptical of Doom’s intentions, even in the midst of battle, Thor recognizes the greater heroic purpose Doom is serving, one that would make him an all-time great Avenger if it was always what guided his actions.
Thor Shocks The Avengers By Proposing Doctor Doom Is The Right Ruler For Earth
One World Under Doom #5; Written By Ryan North; Art By R.B. Silva
One World Under Doom has walked a tightrope with its portrayal of its eponymous character. Using the powers of the Sorcerer Supreme, which he usurped from Doctor Strange, Doctor Doom has extended his dominion over the entire planet, declaring himself Emperor, while proclaiming himself to be a protector of Earth, rather than conqueror. This was soon put to the test in a major way, as Dormammu used the resulting global instability as an opportunity to launch an invasion of Earth. In One World Under Doom #5, Doom seemingly proves himself as a legitimate hero, at least enough to impress Thor.
One World Under Doom #5’s most shocking moment comes after the battle is done, when Thor shocks his fellow heroes by asking, «is it not possible that Doom truly is the best choice for Midgard?«
The issue features the defeat of Dormammu, thanks to the united effort of Earth’s strongest heroes, including the Avengers, X-Men, and more. However, One World Under Doom #5’s most shocking moment comes after the battle is done, when Thor shocks his fellow heroes by asking, «is it not possible that Doom truly is the best choice for Midgard?» To the dismay of Iron Man and other allies, the God of Thunder goes on to advocate for Doctor Doom, saying his efforts to make the world a better place as its Emperor have, so far, been successful.
Doctor Doom's Avengers Potential Is Part Of What Makes Him Such A Compelling, Tragic Villain
One World Under Doom Furthers The Character's Complexity
Thor’s pro-Doctor Doom stance in One World Under Doom #5 might catch the Avengers, and readers, off guard, but it actually draws on existing parallels between the hero and villain. As Thor notes in the issue, he «is not of Midgard,» and as an Asgardian, comes from a culture with a very different view of imperial power. Thor is, after all, the current All-Father of the Asgardians, a benevolent monarchical ruler. So, it is not as shocking as it might seem that he would view this as a legitimate system for Earth to adopt.
Though Thor’s support for Emperor Doom might not last long, it does highlight the fact that Doom has always had the potential to be a great hero, and moreover, a great Avenger. This is, in fact, part of the tragic quality of the character; few Marvel villains have managed to become quite as redeemable over the years, without ever being redeemed. Often, villains’ failures to be rehabilitated are depicted as being out of their control, but for Doctor Doom, it is always a choice, one he will probably make again before One World Under Doom is through.
One World Under Doom #5 is available now from Marvel Comics.
Thor
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