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Students Assemble: Acclimating to College using the Marvel Cinematic Universe By Cody T. Havard, Ph.D. The University of Memphis

Welcome to college everyone! While 2012), politics (Spanakos, 2012), ethics differences, and work to understand and help college should be a time that is both fulfilling (White, 2012), academic research (Havard, solve important issues facing communities and formative in helping shape your life, Fuller, Ryan, & Grieve, 2019), story- and larger society. it is also one that is filled with questions telling (Yockey, 2017), and popular culture Just as a college campus can provide all of and situations that require thoughtful (Chambliss, Svitavsky, & Fandino, 2018). this to a student, the Campus plays consideration and decision making. For I want to offer two important notes on the same role for the characters of the MCU. most, this is the first time that you will be or this essay. First, while the information in this When Tony Stark/ decided to move are in charge of your daily schedule and time. essay is meant to represent and reach as many the Avengers headquarters to up-state New In essence, you are for the first time in charge readers as possible, there will undoubtedly be York from , effort was made to of making the decisions that shape your areas that do not receive the attention they construct a campus in which heroes could future - albeit in a controlled environment. deserve. As the characters discussed in this live, train, work, and engage with others. So, this is an exciting time. I want to wish you essay come from the MCU, it is important Afterall, the is the primary all good luck and know that people at your to note that Marvel continually updates place where Wanda Maximoff/ institution want to support your education their character offerings and introduces more and learn more about each other and and matriculation. superheroes to the universe. So, in addition grow their relationship - which is the theme The purpose of this essay is an attempt to the characters included in this essay, I also of the Disney+ series WandaVision (2021)! to offer help and assistance as you begin, call on you to identify your own characters Just like a college campus provides a place or continue your path through college. which can provide you with inspiration. for students and faculty to hone their skills Hopefully this essay also encourages you Second, even if you are not in currently in and study their craft, the Avengers Campus to take responsibility over your educational college (e.g., high school, middle school, does the same for various MCU heroes. Also, experience and work to make sure that you grade school, or are not in school), it is the just as visiting a college campus can inspire take full advantage of the possibilities and goal and hope that you can also find benefit admiration - and sometimes intimation or opportunities at your disposal. The Marvel in most if not all sections of this narrative. surprise - at the grounds, the same can be Cinematic Universe (MCU) holds a very Because, just as responsibility tracked down said of the Avengers Campus as experienced popular and important place in contemporary Peter Parker/Spider-Man in Spider-Man: Far by Peter Parker (admiration) in Spider- society1, and this essay uses the universe and from Home (2019), every-day responsibilities Man: Homecoming (2017) or Scott Lang some of its characters to draw comparisons do not subside for most, and we are left (intimidation, surprise) in Ant-Man (2015). to contemporary college life. Specifically, we with the task of finding ways to adapt to Another important role a college campus will look at various characters in the MCU our environment. The rest of this essay will plays is providing a place of grounding for to discuss how they can provide lessons to discuss the similarities between the MCU’s current and former students. The sense of finding yourfit in college and taking control Avengers headquarters and college campuses, being at home many people feel when they of your educational experience. Areas this select characters and their lessons within the visit their college campuses occurs as a result essay will not address are some off-campus MCU, a note on inclusion, and a concluding of memories formed from relevant events or inappropriate behavior, instead, focusing statement on how the MCU story arc and experiences. In the MCU, this is similar on how to encourage positive interactions compares to all of us. So, with that, please to Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow holding between you and your educational come along with me, enjoy, and let’s break down the fort at the Avengers Campus in environment. some eggs (Thank you Tony Stark)! Avengers: Endgame (2019)2. Marvel characters have been used throughout history to help people Welcome to Avengers (and College) MCU Heroes and Us understand their surroundings, whether it be Campus This section highlights various heroes a teenager dealing with the problems facing A university or institution of higher and characters in the MCU in an effort youth (e.g., Peter Parker/Spider-Man and education is made up of facilities that are to allow everyone to identify similarities /Ms. Marvel), or the United used to teach those attending classes about and inspiration. As previously noted, the States involvement in worldwide events such relevant information, while encouraging characters below have been featured in the as World War II (e.g., Issue #1 of Captain a shared experience and dissemination MCU-rather in a primary or sometimes America shows him punching Adolf Hitler), of knowledge. College campuses contain secondary role-and while careful attempt has the Cuban Missile Crisis (e.g., Tony Stark/ services meant to help students (e.g., food, been made to include as diverse a lineup of Iron Man), or the Cold War-era space race shopping, health management). In that characters as possible, limitations imposed (e.g., ). Additionally, Marvel way, a college campus can become a place on the content material in turn limited books and the MCU have been used to where students live, learn, and engage with such efforts. The goal of this section is that explain such topics as philosophy (White, others in an effort to find similarities, discuss everyone can find one or more characters in

1. As evidence of the MCU’s popularity, the franchise has placed three movies in the top ten best all-time box office sellersAvengers: ( Endgame, 2019 at number one), and nine movies that have grossed over one billion dollars (Top Lifetime Grosses, 2020). 2. There is even a scene in the movie where Natasha asks Steve Rogers/ if he has returned to dolaundry as a way to exhibit the importance of home or place.

Journal of Undergraduate Research – Volume XI #1 Editorial

which they are similar, and thus can garner and precincts, only to be rejected each time3. important lessons. Feel free to identify and Once he becomes Captain America, Steve Next, we have Shuri, someone that finds draw inspiration from as many characters as longs to serve his country and protect his her true power when she is able to create and needed. friends and fellow soldiers. He shows great help others. When we meet Shuri, she is the selflessness by choosing to crash a plane tech genius younger sibling of T’Challa in / loaded with explosives headed for New York Black Panther (2018). Appearing in three Even as Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel City when he cannot safely land it. movies, we have yet to see the complete has appeared only twice in the MCU - in Upon waking up after 70 years in a growth and arc of Shuri, but her place in Avengers: Endgame (2019) and her own coma, Steve finds himself in an era that he the MCU is cemented by her willingness to stand-alone movie Captain Marvel (2019) - it does not understand being confronted with help her brother thanks to her unsurpassed is apparent that she is a very important piece people he is unfamiliar with. However, the technological skills, all while having to deal to the MCU who will shape the future of the one thing that Steve understands is his duty with the loss of her father. universe in numerous ways. Captain Marvel to his mission and country. After defeating Shuri is also responsible for helping (2019) picks up when Vers, not knowing her with the Avengers (The Avengers, other heroes in their time of need. After true identity as Carol Danvers, is training 2012) - where he initially sees cracks in all, she is the one who is placed in charge as part of a group charged with protecting the veneer surrounding the mission and of caring for Barnes/Winter Soldier the empire. During a recovery mission, purpose of Strategic Homeland Intervention, when he is transported to during she is captured by soldiers and has Enforcement, and Logistics Division his self-imposed frozen isolation. Then, when her memories mined, which sets off the (S.H.I.E.L.D.) - we next see Steve experience he is needed to help defend against beginning of Carol remembering her former an existential crisis. In Captain America: in Avengers: War (2018), Shuri is life. Upon escape, she finds herself on Earth The Winter Soldier (2014), Steve’s fears of presumably the one who designs his new (planet C-53 in her lexicon), where she meets S.H.I.E.L.D. are confirmed, he becomes bionic arm. Additionally, Shuri is left with a younger and the two set out to a fugitive of the law alongside Natasha the responsibility of taking the Mind Stone try and protect against the . When Romanoff/Black Widow and Sam Wilson/ out of Vision4. In the subsequent battle she finds out the Skrull are not a threat, and , reunites with his childhood friend scene, before the outlanders enter her lab, rather the Kree are the true , she - who has been turned into the we get a glimpse of Shuri making one final comes to the realization of her powers and Winter Soldier - and battles . gesture on her display screen, which perhaps defeat the Kree in space and on Earth, while When Steve is confronted with choosing signals her role in future projects such as the taking the name of Captain Marvel to honor to sign and abide by the Sokovia Accords Disney+ series WandaVision (2021). a former . (Captain America: , 2016), we Throughout Shuri’s arc and time in the While we will undoubtedly get more observe Steve truly evolve from someone MCU, she has repeatedly been established details about Carol and her friends in who views serving and protecting country as an invaluable member of the Avengers. subsequent stand-alone and team up movies, of utmost importance to someone that sees From her in Black Panther the important trait to discuss in this essay is freedom, friendship, and protecting friends (2018) to her standing as one of the strong her evolving understanding and control of as paramount. Throughout his actions in female heroes of the MCU in Avengers: her powers - both super and human innate. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) and Avengers: Endgame (2019), it is undeniable that Shuri When she tells the Supreme that Endgame (2019), we repeatedly see Steve is extremely important to the present and she has been fighting with one hand tied make the decision to follow his own personal future of the shared universe. We will see behind her back, she is signaling that she has moral compass, even when it runs contrary more of Shuri in Black Panther 2 (expected discovered her abilities and true self, and will to pre-prescribed rules and expectations. This 2022) and other projects. For example, it not allow others or herself to hold her back culminates when Steve travels back in time to has long been rumored that she would take anymore. This is a very important lesson for return the and decides to stay the mantle of Black Panther in the second everyone in that some - or perhaps everyone in the alternate timeline with this life-long installment - following a story line from to a certain extent - may feel that they have love (Avengers: Endgame, 2019). the comics - even before the tragic loss of been held back by others or oneself. If this is Steve Rogers/Captain America is seen Chadwick Boseman. If you are someone who something that speaks to you, it is now the as someone whose story evolves a great deal feels that your skills and expertise set you time to accept your full abilities and display as he discovers his talent in leading others apart, you may identify with Shuri. them for others to see. Don’t go through and his own sense of morality. Throughout Finally, and most importantly, the college and life without using the powers his story, Steve makes it well known that popularity of the movie Black Panther (2018) and abilities you possess. Instead, learn from friendship and protecting the ones he is only surpassed by its importance and Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel, and strive to loves along with those that cannot protect meaning in our society for people of color find and use your true potential. themselves is of utmost importance, which is and underrepresented groups. Not only is not unlike another MCU hero . So, Shuri a great character in the MCU, she Steve Rogers/Captain America if you identify with Steve, do you see yourself signals the potential for underrepresented When we meet Steve Rogers/Captain as loyal to friends/family and your set of people, especially young women of color, America in the MCU, he is a young man beliefs? Are you willing to help others in need to serve as true experts and inspirations in with a dream of serving his country, but when maybe it is not the popular thing to do society. At a time when the United States kept from doing so for physical and health (e.g., stand up for or help someone in their has elected its first woman, and woman of reasons. He is so determined to serve his hour of need)? If so, then he may be a color to the Vice Presidency, the lessons and country during World War II that he breaks of inspiration. inspiration from projects like the MCU is laws by trying to register in different counties needed to help mold future generations of

3. When he meets Dr. Abraham Erskine, he states “I just don’t like bullies” (Captain America: The First Avenger, 2011), before finally being given the opportunity to serve as a member of the Strategic Scientific Reserve (SSR). 4. While also delivering a little jab at the work of Bruce Banner/ and Tony Stark/Iron Man.

Journal of Undergraduate Research – Volume XI Editorial

leaders. society seeks to include more diverse voices, than serve as King of New -an honor people, and ideas. This is one reason why and responsibility he passes to . T’Challa/Black Panther the legacy of T’Challa/Black Panther, and ’s story arc, while couched in humor Standing alongside Shuri and his mother Chadwick Boseman, will live on forever. and various mis-adventures, is one of the at the end of Avengers: Endgame (2019) is more striking when one considers applicable King T’Challa/Black Panther. First seen in Thor lessons. He begins as a vain individual who Captain America: Civil War (2016), T’Challa Next, we have Thor Odinson, the God is unwilling to listen to the advice of others. becomes king of Wakanda when his father of Thunder. When we first see Thor, he is Along the way, he learns humility, what T’Chaka is killed while attending the signing set to take over rule of Asgard (Thor, 2011) friendship and companionship mean, and of the Sokovia Accords. He initially tries to as a vane and hard-headed person. As a while he does slip up and reveal his vanity avenge the of his father by tracking matter of fact, his vanity and unwillingness again in Avengers: Infinity War (2018), he down Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier, then the to listen and problem solve with others in a learns to trust others and do what he believes real culprit and villain . However, responsible way by battling the Frost Giants is best for friends, loved ones, and humanity. when given his chance for retribution, on Jotunheim, is what leads to him being Additionally, his mistake in Avengers: Infinity T’Challa decides not to kill Zemo, but rather banished to Midgard (i.e., Earth) without War (2018) reveals that while we may strive let him face authorities. his powers or hammer . Only after to improve and help others, we do still make We next pick up T’Challa’s arc in the Thor learns the importance of listening and mistakes. stand-alone movie Black Panther (2018), empathy – he sacrifices himself to save his Thor’s depression inAvengers: Endgame when he is officially taking the throne of friends - is he able to use Mjolnir and his (2019) - while portrayed in a somewhat Wakanda. Throughout the movie, we see power again. comic relief fashion - also provides an T’Challa grow into his role as king and Throughout his story arc, Thor learns important lesson. Even as we may feel sad protector of Wakanda, and come to terms what true responsibility, leadership, and and depressed at times - or for a prolonged with the sins and of his father and subsequent friendship mean, like when he has to defend period of time - we still have value and can fallout5. After having been defeated by Eric Asgard from Malekith and from help others and ourselves. Remember the Killmonger (born N’Jadaka), T’Challa has to the Aether/Reality Stone, all while coping excitement Thor displays when he is reunited rely on a rival tribe and three strong women with the loss of his mother (Thor: The Dark with Mjolnir and realizes he is still worthy? in his life (e.g., his mother Ramonda, ex- World, 2013). Later, when he has been Thor’s story offers several important lessons, girlfriend Nakia, and sister Shuri). Upon stranded on the planet Sakaar, Thor teams and his character offers many with a path returning to battle Killmonger for the up with Valkyrie, Hulk, and Loki (sort of) toward self-improvement and service to throne, he relies on more strong female to find a way back to save the people of others. characters, the and to Asgard and settle a new homeland on Earth reclaim the throne and stop the spread of in modern-day Norway (Thor: , Loki Wakandan weapons around the world. After 2017). On the flip side of the Asgardian coin, reclaiming the throne, T’Challa is inspired to His travels and struggles in Avengers: we are presented with Loki, the God of open an outreach center in the United States Infinity War (2018) and Avengers: Endgame Mischief. And while it can be argued - and and announce Wakanda’s willingness to help (2019) highlight the human nature in Thor. has been many times - whether he is a hero or around the world. After, as some have argued (e.g. Sean Gerber villain, Loki illustrates that everyone has the In Avengers: Infinity War (2018) and from MCU Fanshow), his vanity strikes again capacity to do right when they are compelled Avengers: Endgame (2019), T’Challa plays and he does not properly defeat Thanos in to do so while also behaving out of pettiness a very important role in protecting the Avengers: Infinity War (2018)7, Thor seemingly or jealousy at times. It is apparent from the galaxy from Thanos6. Throughout his time learns his lesson when he finishes off Thanos first time we see Loki that he is in a constant on screen, T’Challa/Black Panther let his early in Avengers: Endgame (2019). However, struggle for the admiration of his father and presence be known as someone who accepts he falls into a depression -seemingly from the competition with his brother, something ultimate responsibility for protecting his guilt of not being able to stop Thanos’ snap, most, if not all siblings can identify with. county and fellow citizens, while also and his, as some would say, over-reaction to While most (or no one) tries to (nor should) providing the important lesson of relying on slaying Thanos at the beginning of Avengers: capture Manhattan and take over the word strong female characters for help. If you are Endgame (2019) - thus revealing one of his (The Avengers, 2012), they can make sense someone that believes strongly in protecting original problems from his first adventure of Loki’s sometimes childish behavior when friends and loved ones, then you may find in the MCU. His need for friendship is also looked at through the lenses of familial ties and similarities with T’Challa/Back Panther. highlighted in Avengers: Endgame (2019), as sibling rivalry. After all, rivalry is something Even as T’Challa appeared in only his fellow Avengers help him throughout his that is established and grows over time when four movies, his importance in the MCU is guilt realize that he can still help. Remember, faced with competition, and can lead people unquestionable. While the tragic passing of when prompted by (albeit to celebrate others failures (Cikara, Botvinik, Chadwick Boseman cuts short his storyline in an ornery way) and his mother, Thor & Fiske, 2012; Havard, 2014; Havard, Gray, in the MCU, the importance of the character realizes he is still worthy of Mjolnir despite Gould, Sharp, & Schaffer, 2013; Elsbach & and movie cannot be overstated. Black his depression, and can help defeat a time- Bhattychary, 2001). The narrative of family Panther (2018) was the first time that a large traveling Thanos to bring back those lost ties and relationships will undoubtedly be segment of underrepresented people saw a in the snap. When we leave Thor, he has told through the future feature filmFantastic on the big screen that resembled seemingly accepted his fate to strike out on Four (TBA). them. This feat is extremely important as our his own adventure of self-discovery rather Most people can also identify with Loki’s

5. His father leaving a young Eric Killmonger behind in America, and Wakanda’s role in modern society. 6. First, the battle of Wakanda is the setting for the snap, and upon the Avengers reversing the snap in Avengers: Endgame (2019), T’Challa is the first to walk through the portal to fight with Captain America, flanked by Shuri and Okoye, and followed by Wakandan warriors. 7. Thor goes for the body rather than the head of Thanos because he wants to see the fruits of his labor and have Thanos know he was responsible for his demise.

Journal of Undergraduate Research – Volume XI #3 Editorial seemingly selfless behavior in the final battle her character one that many people, and of Thor: The Dark World (2013) after his Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow women in particular, can aspire to. She was mother has been killed. Loki feels guilt for Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow is introduced in the background, but through playing a role in the tragic events, and thus introduced to the MCU in determination and persistence, found her feels compelled to avenge (maybe he is an (2010), as an apparent consultant for Stark way into a leadership role. Additionally, she Avenger after all) his mother’s fate and help Industries. After getting small glimpses of was the first female superhero to be included defeat Malekith. Even his events at the end her abilities8, we learn her true identity as a in the MCU ( was not revealed of the movie - altering himself to become an S.H.I.E.L.D. special agent sent to monitor, as Rescue until Avengers: Endgame, 2019), illusion of Odon so that he may rule Asgard protect, and assist Tony Stark/Iron Man, making her character and placement in the - is something that people can learn from. and her full range of skills as the lethal Black MCU very important for women and other Other than possibly the truly selfless among Widow. In The Avengers (2012), Natasha is people used to seeing almost exclusively us, most people can understand doing good sent to retrieve Bruce Banner/Hulk, with caucasian men in such roles. It will be exciting and bad things as a means to an end. whom she forms a strong bond, and is the to see her story continue in Black Widow Throughout Thor: Ragnarok (2017), we one able to trick Loki into sharing part of his (expected 2021), and she is a testament to see Loki using his cunning to win favor with plans of attack. She also shows compassion anyone that feels their skills and capabilities the Sakaar Grandmaster - even trying to trick by saving Clint Barton/ from Loki’s have been overlooked at any time. Thor once again for his own personal benefit. mind control, and leadership by closing the It takes Thor turning the tables on Loki, and portal over to end the Tony Stark/Iron Man Meek finding him, to set Loki on a path invasion. When we meet Tony Stark in Iron meant to help the people of Asgard. We even In every story Natasha appears, she plays Man (2008), he is an arrogant and selfish see his self-imposed triumphant return to a vital role in the success of the Avengers. In individual. By design, he is not someone Asgard when he lands, announcing his role Captain America: Winter Soldier (2014), she that is easy to like. He primarily looks out as the true savior to his subjects. This again helps Steve Rogers stay under S.H.E.I.L.D.’s for himself and his company’s profits - made is something most people can understand, radar so they - joined by Sam Wilson/Falcon from manufacturing and selling weapons as personal motives often combine - and - can thwart Hydra’s attempt to take over the used for war - and engages in a very self- sometimes override - the motive to help world. In Avengers: Age of (2015), we serving lifestyle. When Tony is kidnapped others. Rather than those behaviors making see her bond with Bruce Banner grow as she by a terrorist cell and imprisoned in someone a bad person, it highlights the asserts herself as the one Avenger who can Afghanistan, he meets Dr. Ho Yinsen and juxtaposition of human nature - balancing calm him when he becomes the Hulk9. together they produce a working suit of selfish with selfless behavior at times. This Aside from her skills in espionage and armor in order to escape their captors. When is perhaps one reason why Loki is such a battle, Natasha also serves as the emotional Tony finds his escape but Yinsen cannot, we popular character in the MCU. He represents leader of the Avengers. For example, in see the first transformation in his outlook the struggle that many experience from time- Captain America: Civil War (2016), we see on his life and how he has made his fortune. to-time. Similar things can be said of her ability to relate and sympathize with Upon his escape, he sees weapons made by and through their narratives in the others - first T’Challa/Black Panther at his company and what they are capable of, MCU (e.g., both - , the passing of his father and then Steve which causes Tony to divest from all military 2014 and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Rogers/Captain America when Peggy Carter weapons manufacturing and begin to focus 2017; Nebula – Avengers: Infinity War, 2018, passes away. She also shows support for her on renewable energy instead. Avengers: Endgame, 2019). teammates during Avengers: Infinity War After Tony is forced to battle his business When we leave Loki in Avengers: Infinity (2018) by joining Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet partner in order to protect his loved ones War (2019), he has made the ultimate Witch and Okoye in battle to defeat Proxima and others, his iconic line, “I am Iron Man” sacrifice, and thus his (current) story arc Midnight. We see her true leadership, and (Iron Man, 2008), signifies his willingness to seems to show him going from good to bad. others acknowledging as much, in Avengers: take on the responsibilities of serving others. Instead, Loki is a true representation of the Endgame (2019) when she acts as monitor of Throughout his story arc, we see Tony forced human condition as he balances good and galactic events and directs other Avengers on to navigate his mortality (Iron Man 2, 2010) bad, and struggles with selfish, vain, and missions following the snap. Additionally, she and depression (, 2013), but childish behavior while at times trying to shows her leadership by making the ultimate he continually makes moves to protect his help others. However, throughout Loki’s sacrifice on Vormir in order to retrieve the friends, loved ones, and others (The Avengers, arc, when forced with the decision to helps Soul Stone - much to the chagrin and sorrow 2012). All through his brash and egotistical others, he more times than not makes the of Clint Barton/Hawkeye and her fellow behavior, we are able to see another aspect appropriate and socially acceptable decision teammates. of his personality in which he deeply cares - possibly a dichotomy that will be further Introduced as a strong female supporting about others - even taking on a mentor role explored in the Disney+ series Loki (expected character, Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow in Iron Man 3 (2013), and Spider-Man: 2021). So, perhaps you identify with Loki quickly became a fan-favorite as her story Homecoming (2017), and posthumously in because you feel your actions do not always arc progressed, thereby paving the way for Spider-Man: Far from Home (2019). In the convey your intended message. Everyone other female characters and title films such end, Tony sacrifices himself to save others makes mistakes and does things that hurt as Captain Marvel (2019). In that, she while delivering his iconic line once again others, often for selfish reasons. However, represents the individuals that are sometimes (Avengers: Endgame, 2019). when push comes to shove, someone like overlooked until they no longer can be. Her Tony’s story arc is one of redemption and Loki makes the correct decision, which is not leadership and compassion, combined with making adjustments in order to keep those unlike many of us. her expertise in being a spy and warrior, make around him safe. Throughout his relationship

8. She defeats in a training match without any trouble. 9. A video recording of her also calms Bruce after two years of being Gladiator Hulk in Thor: Ragnarok, 2017.

Journal of Undergraduate Research – Volume XI Journal of Undergraduate Research – Volume XI Social SciencesEditorial

with Pepper Potts/Rescue, Tony switches Soldier (2013), Nick Fury’s motives are once roles for characters like Luis in Ant-Man and between acting selfishly and responsibly. again questioned among the superheroes the : Quantumania (TBA), Valkyrie in Along from being a technological genius, like under his leadership. However, he shows his Thor: Love and Thunder (expected 2022), Bruce Banner/Hulk and Shuri, Tony shows resolve when, before he is taken in the snap, Mary Jane in Spider-Man 3 (expected 2021), fortitude in his journey. While trying to keep he sends a crypted message to Captain Marvel and Maria and/or in the Avengers together by signing the Sokovia in Avengers: Infinity War (2018). Instrumental Captain Marvel 2 (expected 2022) - Monica Accords, Tony makes decisions he believes in helping Carol Danvers in Captain Marvel Rambeau, Maria’s daughter, is slated to will protect others (Captain America: Civil (2019), and after being brought back from appear in the Disney+ series WandaVision War, 2016). Tony also shows a lot of folly, the snap (Avengers: Endgame, 2019), Fury (2021). As more projects are developed and with many of his best-intentioned ideas and uses whatever means necessary in Spider- characters introduced, the MCU will become plans rubbing others the wrong way. From Man: Far from Home (2019) to coerce Peter more inclusive to an even greater number of building Ultron (Avengers: , Parker to battle the Elementals and fans. In the time being, however, it is the 2015), to imprisoning Wanda Maximoff/ – sort of10. hope that the effort made in this essay will Scarlett Witch (Captain America: Civil War, Nick Fury represents a strategically- engage as many readers as possible from 2016), not all of Tony’s decisions are taken minded leader who is willing to stick to diverse backgrounds and makeup. kindly by his teammates and loved ones. his vision regardless of popularity. Often Tony is also a story of someone trying choosing to work behind the scenes rather A Note on Story Arc to do right, and sometimes hurting loved than out in public, he uses his cunning wit This essay focused on the application of ones along the way-when he travels to space and determination to take charge of positions the MCU in helping students find fit within in Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Pepper Potts and carry out missions. He is also someone their institutions and take ownership of is left not knowing of his where-abouts or that possesses the foresight to predict and their educational experience. To do so, we his safety. So, much like Loki, Tony’s story plan for events well in advance, while also discussed the similarities between college is one that resonates with fans. Having to relying on the strong female character Maria and the Avengers headquarters, comparison, deal with personal struggles while trying Hill. Anyone who believes they possess skills inspiration, and lessons from various MCU to protect others is something that many in strategy and prediction, along with strong characters, and the need for increased and people can relate to - the same may be said leadership, could look to Nick Fury for continued inclusion. To conclude, we will about Rocket Raccoon. The inappropriate inspiration. briefly discuss the story arc and what it behavior aside nor condoned, Tony shows means to all of us. us a human who makes the transition from A Note on Inclusion A story arc is the overall narrative told selfish to selfless behavior, much the same as As previously stated, even with the recent about a character over the various movies Dr. Stephen Strange (, 2016). emphasis on underrepresented characters and projects in which they are involved. A For anyone that struggles with doing right by receiving feature films (e.g.,Black Panther, great example of using a story arc to tell a others and the personal feelings of selfish and 2018; Captain Marvel, 2019), the MCU to character’s narrative lies with Bruce Banner/ self-righteousness, Tony Stark/Iron Man is a this point has relied heavily on Caucasian Hulk. Due to contract stipulations - the character in which they may relate. male leads to tell the stories in the shared character’s distribution rights for stand-alone universe. As such, even as much care was movies belong to Comcast/Universal, which Nick Fury taken in this essay to include as diverse array is why The Incredible Hulk (2008) is his We save Nick Fury for the last character of characters as possible, the content material only title role within the MCU - his story discussion intentionally. Even though he did not allow as much diversity as desired. It has been told through projects in which he has not been featured in his own feature is worth noting that confirmed and rumored appears with other Avengers (Havard, 2020). movie - he will be star in a Disney+ project upcoming projects will introduce a more For instance, his story arc of accepting the (TBA) - Nick Fury plays an diverse set of heroes and characters into the importance of Hulk is told through Thor: invaluable role in the MCU. From the first MCU - both in terms of racial and ethnic Ragnarok (2017), Avengers: Infinity War time we see Nick Fury appear in the end- makeup (e.g., , expected 2021; Shang (2018), and Avengers: Endgame (2019). The credit scene in Iron Man (2008) to discuss Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, expected same - minus the contract stipulations - can The Avenger Initiative, it became apparent 2021; Ms. Marvel, expected 2021; , be said about , whose inspiring that he was instrumental to the success of TBA; She Hulk, TBA; Iron Heart, TBA; Miles story is told through ten MCU projects. the MCU, both through his leadership of Morales) and abilities (e.g., , We will learn more about Colonel James S.H.I.E.L.D. and hard-nosed determination TBA – Marc Spector/Moon Knight struggles Rhodes/War Machine in the Disney+ series to protect others - even if he has to use with multiple personality disorder). Armor Wars (TBA). unauthorized means at times. It is also worth noting that the MCU Just as characters in the MCU follow His guidance in sending Natasha itself is an evolving universe, and efforts are a story arc, so too does everyone reading – Romanoff/Black Widow to help and monitor continuous in including more diversity in and writing - this narrative. Further, just as Tony Stark in Iron Man 2 (2010) asserts his both storytelling and characters in order to each character’s story arc in the MCU has leadership over the Avengers team. In The attract a wide range of viewers and fans. The evolved, the same can be said about each of Avengers (2012), Nick Fury is responsible efforts made by the MCU are admirable, us. For characters like Doctor Strange, we for bringing together, manipulating, and and the popularity of its movies and projects are just seeing the beginning of their arc - manufacturing inspiration to the Avengers provides an emphasis for some to watch Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness leading up to the battle with Loki in stories involving diverse characters that may is expected in 2022. For others, like the Manhattan. His clandestine plans being not have otherwise chosen to do so. Perhaps Guardians of the Galaxy, we are currently uncovered in Captain America: The Winter in the future we will see more developed approaching their full development - if you

10. An end-credit scene revealed he was taking a vacation while Talos tried to handle his responsibilities.

Journal ofof UndergraduateUndergraduate Research Research – Volume– Volume XI IX #5# SocialEditorial Sciences believe rumors that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (expected 2023) will be the last project for the current team. And, if you see yourself as a supporting character in the MCU like References Sam Wilson/Falcon, Bucky Barnes/Winter Chambliss, J. C., Svitavsky, W. L., & Fandino, D, (2018). Assembling the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Soldier, Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch, Essays on the social, cultural and geopolitical domains. Vision, or Clint Barton/Hawkeye, rest NC: McFarland. assured that we will soon learn more about Cikara, M., Botninick, M. M., & Fiske, S. their characters and story arcs in various T. (2011). Us versus them: Social identity shaped neural responses to intergroup competition and Disney+ series (The Falcon and the Winter harm. Psychological Science, 22, 306-313. doi: Soldier, expected 2021; WandaVision, 2021; 10.1177/0956797610397667 Hawkeye, expected 2021). Elsbach, K. D., & Bhattacharya, C. B. An individual’s story arc is one that (2001). Defining who you are by what you’re not: Organizational disidentification and the National changes and alters as they encounter relevant Rifle Association. Organization Science, 12(4), 393- events. At each turn - or fork in the road, 413. if you prefer the metaphor - an individual Havard, C. T (2014). Glory Out of Reflected is in charge of their decisions and story Failure: The examination of how rivalry affects sport fans. Sport Management Review, 17, 243-253. doi: narrative, although it may not feel that way 10.1016/j.smr.2013.09.002. all the time. This is where a popular refrain Havard, C. T. (2020). Disney vs. Comcast: it’s not what is handed to you, but how you Lessons learned from the corporate rivalry. Graziadio handle it (paraphrased) comes into play. Business Review, 23(1). https://gbr.pepperdine. edu/2020/05/disney-vs-comcast Each of us has the ability to take control Havard, C. T., Fuller, R. D., Ryan, T. of our story arc and make the most of our D. & Grieve, F. G. (2019). Using the Marvel situations and environments - whether in Cinematic Universe to build a defined research line. school, college, work, or life. It is up to us Transformative Works and Cultures, 30. https://doi. org/10.3983/twc/2019.1837 to shape the present and future that we want Havard, C. T., Gray, D. P., Gould, J., Sharp, for ourselves - and to do our best to react L. A., & Schaffer, J. J. (2013). Development and to fortunate and unfortunate situations for validation of the Sport Rivalry Fan Perception Scale our overall benefit, health, and safety. The (SRFPS). Journal of Sport Behavior, 36, 45-65. Spanakos, T. (2012). Gods, beasts, and political characters and situations discussed in this animals: Why the Avengers assemble. In MD White narrative each chose a destiny or path – or at (ed.), The Avengers and philosophy: Earth’s mightiest least their writers did - and that is something thinkers. Hobeken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons. we all can apply to our lives. Choose what Top Lifetime Grosses, (2020) Box Office Mojo. Retreived from: https://www.boxofficemojo.com/ you want, and strive to reach that goal while chart/top_lifetime_gross/?area=XWW trying to improve as a person each and every White, M. D. (2012). Superhuman ethics class day. Finally, hopefully reading about popular with the Avengers . In MD White (ed.), The MCU characters and their personalities can Avengers and philosophy: Earth’s mightiest thinkers. Hobeken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons. help you learn more about yourself and find White, M. D. (2012). The Avengers and fit in your current environment, whether philosophy: Earth’s mightiest thinkers. Hoboken, NJ: you identify with one or several characters. John Wiley & Sons. Remember, with great power comes great Yockey, M. (2017). Make ours Marvel: Media convergences and a comics universe. Austin, TX: responsibility. Now go forth and break some University of Texas Press. eggs. Thank you for coming along on the adventure with me, Cody T. Havard, Ph.D. The University of Memphis

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