Carol Danvers made her debut in the 1960s as a strong, capable woman who overcame gender stereotypes and excelled in a predominantly male world. Even in the early stages she was a surefire feminist icon. Already sporting a long list of accomplishments - a fighter pilot, an officer in the U.S. Air Force and a CIA agent Carol made her heroic/super powered debut after she was hired as the head of security of NASA headquarters.
After being rescued by her co-worker Dr. Phillip Lawson, an actual Kree super-agent, Carol absorbed much of his genetic properties and insisted she stand as his equal. Her DNA became a perfect synthesis of Kree and human genes. Thus, begins her story of superhuman powers and abilities and the birth of Ms. Marvel.
More recently Carol has taken up the mantle of Captain Marvel, a progress no doubt in the way we see our superheroines but also in honour of Mar-Vell.
Her history at first pinned her as the romantic interest but when she entered the Bronze Age Carol was celebrated and viewed as one of Marvel's strongest heroes. She could go toe to toe with the best of them and she had brains. She even moved away from her romantic story lines and got a revamped costume. Truly coming into her own and becoming one of Marvel's most liberated women.
After the character underwent some controversial writing she was written off for some time. Our earliest memories of Danvers come from the X-men: The Animated Series story arc that involved Rogue stealing her powers. It took us awhile to warm up to Carol because of this story and the way she was presented. Carol's writing for years had her in tragic territory and shaky grounds as a character. It wasn't until more recently Danvers had her on going that fully established her as one of Earth's mightiest heroes.
The Captain Marvel storyline has always dipped its hands in feminism and explored sexists views in our society. Carol's dreams and aspirations stem from her misogynistic father. His small minded ideas about Carol's future only led her to strive and become the best she could be. She also powers her way through male dominant work fields, as well as male dominant industries (like the military and comicbooks).
The Carol Corps
One of the most inspiring things to come out of Captain Marvel is no doubt the fanbase and creation of the Carol Corps. The unique fanbase shares a special camaraderie, not only between fans but betweens creators and fans alike. The fans are also passionate and creative. Art, stories, cosplays and discourse surrounding the character show just how passionate the Carol Corps is. You can often find the Carol Corps sporting their versions of Carol's newly designed costume (which is beautiful we might add)
Something the Carol Corps does that is truly unique is show comic book creators that girls are passionate about reading, about reading comic books, about comic book characters, about female comic book characters.
We have a feeling the Carol Corps will only continue to grow and we sure hope so.
Check out this Beginner's guide to the Carol Corps
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