Minotaur (comics)

Last updated

Minotaur is the name of several fictional characters appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics.

Contents

Publication history

The Miklos Vryolak incarnation of Minotaur first appeared in Iron Man #24 (April 1970), and was created by writer Archie Goodwin and artist Johnny Craig.[ citation needed ]

The mythological Minotaur first appeared in Hercules: Heart of Chaos #2 (July 1997), and was adapted by writer Peter B. Gillis and artist Sal Buscema.[ citation needed ]

The Decimus Furius incarnation of Minotaur first appeared in Uncanny X-Force #1 (October 2010), and was created by writer Rick Remender and artist Jerome Opeña.[ citation needed ]

The Dario Agger incarnation of Minotaur first appeared in Thor: God of Thunder #19 (February 2014), and was created by writer Jason Aaron and artist Esad Ribić.[ citation needed ]

Fictional character biography

Mythological Minotaur

The first Minotaur is based on the Greek mythology monster of the same name and has largely the same origins as him. After being killed by Theseus, the Minotaur is resurrected in the modern day by Matsu'o Tsurayaba and the Hand. However, he is defeated by Wolverine and petrified before being awakened by Deadpool. [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

Species

When Ares allies with Enchantress and steals the Ebony Blade from Black Knight, they rallie the Minotaurs, Centaurs, and Satyrs to attack Mount Olympus before being defeated by Hercules and the Avengers. [6]

Myklos Vryolak

Minotaur
Publication information
Publisher Marvel Comics
First appearance Iron Man #24 (April 1970)
Created by Archie Goodwin
Johnny Craig
In-story information
Alter egoMyklos Vryolak
SpeciesHuman mutate
AbilitiesSuperhuman strength and durability

Miklos Vryolak is a Greek man who suffered from an unknown, uncurable disease. His father heals him using a chemical he discovered in the ruins of the labyrinth, which inadvertently transforms him into a Minotaur. Dr. Vryolak then manipulates Miklos into committing crimes to supply him with materials necessary to create an army of Minotaurs, convincing him that he is producing a cure to his transformation. When Iron Man arrives and battles the Vryolaks at their grotto, Miklos learns of his father's true intentions and sacrifices himself so Iron Man can escape, leaving himself and Dr. Vryolak to be buried in rubble. [2]

Decimus Furius

Dark God Minotaur
Publication information
Publisher Marvel Comics
First appearance Uncanny X-Force #1 (December 2010)
Created by Rick Remender
Jerome Opena
In-story information
Alter egoDecimus Furius
SpeciesHuman mutant
Team affiliations Clan Akkaba
Horsemen of Apocalypse
AbilitiesSuperhuman strength and durability
Regeneration

Decimus Furius is an ancient Roman who became homeless after his parents both committed suicide. During this time, his mutant powers activate, transforming him into a Minotaur. Subsequently, he is imprisoned, transferred to fight in the Colosseum for his freedom, and becomes worshipped as a god. [7]

Apocalypse later recruits Minotaur to become War, one of his Horsemen. However, he falls in love with Psylocke, who cleanses his mind. [8]

Dario Agger

Minotaur
Publication information
Publisher Marvel Comics
First appearance Thor: God of Thunder #19 (April 2014)
Created by Jason Aaron
Esad Ribić
In-story information
Alter egoDario Agger
SpeciesHuman mutate
Team affiliations Roxxon Energy Corporation
Dark Council
AbilitiesSuperhuman strength and durability
Ability to change from human to Minotaur at will

Dario Agger is the CEO of Roxxon Energy Corporation who gained his abilities as a child after unknowingly making a pact with a dark god when his family were attacked by gunmen. [9] After S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Rosalind Solomon exposes Agger's crimes, Thor comes into conflict with him and vows to stop his destruction of the environment. [10] [11]

While Thor is busy with the Avengers, Agger builds a floating island full of factories above Broxton, Oklahoma, which heavily pollutes the town. When Thor returns, Agger sues him for destroying Roxxon's factories and forbids him from entering Broxton. [12] Undeterred, Thor sneaks into Broxton, but is attacked by Ulik and the trolls. In the ensuing fight, Broxton is devastated, which Agger blames on the Asgardians. [13] [14] [15]

In Original Sin , Agger obtains Laufey's skull and a fight ensues between him, Malekith, the Frost Giants, and Thor. Eventually, Agger and Malekith make a deal to allow Roxxon to mine whatever worlds Malekith conquers. [9] [16] [17] The two then kill one hundred Light Elves and use their blood to resurrect Laufey. [18]

In All-New, All-Different Marvel , Minotaur appears as a member of the Dark Council alongside Malekith, Ulik, Laufey, and the Fire Demons. [19]

Agger later attends a meeting at the Universal Bank with several other businessmen, including Tiberius Stone of Alchemax, Wilson Fisk of Fisk Industries, Sebastian Shaw of Shaw Industries, Darren Cross of Cross Technological Enterprises, Zeke Stane of Stane International, Shingen Harada of the Yashida Corporation, Frr'dox of Shi'ar Solutions Consolidated, and Wilhelmina Kensington of Kilgore Arms. However, Exterminatrix of the Midas Corporation appears and kidnaps Agger. After Thor rescues him and escapes the island, Dagger and the other villains are arrested. [20]

Agger and Roxxon later take interest in Weapon H after he kills the Ur-Wendigo, and use the Brood to attack him. [21] While battling Weapon H, Agger explains that he seeks to harness the energy of Weirdworld, which could power the entirety of Earth for up to one million years. [22] [23] After Morgan le Fay mind-controls Weapon H, Agger battles her to save Weirdworld. [24] In the aftermath, Agger plans to manipulate Hulk and Wolverine into battling Weapon H. [25]

Agger and Roxxon collaborate with Baron Zemo in a plan to make the Hydra-occupied Bagalia be recognized as an independent nation by having Mandarin represent them. [26]

During The War of the Realms storyline, Minotaur takes over Antarctica. [27] After his Minotaur identity is publicly exposed, Roxxon's stocks decline, but Agger avoids prosecution by claiming that he was forced to help Malekith. [28] [29] [30]

In The Immortal Hulk , the Minotaur allies with Xemnu. However, he is attacked by Xemnu after learning of his plan to transform others into Xemnu hybrids, leaving him deformed and temporarily mute. [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] Agger later restores his body using a machine created by Roxxon scientist Lamarr, and buys the in-universe Marvel Comics company. [36] [37] [38]

Powers and abilities

Each incarnation of the Minotaur possesses superhuman physical abilities of varying origin. The Decimus Furius incarnation possesses an additional healing factor while the Dario Agger incarnation can willingly change between his human and minotaur forms.

In other media

Television

Mythological Minotaurs appear in the Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H. episode "The Tale of Hercules" as servants of Pluto.[ citation needed ]

Film

A mythological Minotaur appears in Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell .[ citation needed ]

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Silver Samurai</span> Comics character

Silver Samurai is the name of two different supervillains appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics, both acquaintances of Wolverine.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Odin (Marvel Comics)</span> Marvel Comics character

Odin Borson, the All-Father is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. First mentioned in Journey into Mystery #85, the character first appears in Journey into Mystery #86, and was adapted from the Odin of Norse mythology by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. The character is depicted as the father of Thor and, traditionally, as the king of Asgard.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Leader (character)</span> Comic book supervillain

The Leader is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The Leader first appeared in Tales to Astonish #62, created by writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko as the archenemy of the Hulk. He has mainly appeared in Hulk-related comic books over the years and was one of the featured characters in the Marvel NOW! Thunderbolts relaunch.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Executioner (character)</span> Fictional character in the Marvel Comics universe

The Executioner is the name of different fictional characters appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Heimdall (character)</span> Character in Marvel Comics

Heimdall is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character is based on the Norse deity Heimdall. Heimdall is described as all-seeing and all-hearing and is the sole protector of the Bifröst in Asgard.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Warriors Three</span> Group of fictional characters

The Warriors Three are a group of fictional characters appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The characters served as supporting cast members in Thor. The Warriors Three are the Asgardians Fandral, Hogun, and Volstagg. Though the characters are gods of Asgard, they are original creations of Marvel Comics and not based on characters from Norse mythology.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ulik</span> Fictional character appearing in Marvel comics

Ulik is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He usually appears as an adversary of Thor. Ulik was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, and first appears in Thor #137.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Titania (Marvel Comics)</span> Supervillain from Marvel Comics

Titania is a character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by then-Editor-in-Chief Jim Shooter and Mike Zeck, the character first appeared in Secret Wars #3. MacPherran is the second character called Titania. She is the rival of the superhero Jennifer Walters / She-Hulk. Originally a supervillain, in later years, she has reformed into more of an antihero. The character has also been a member of the Masters of Evil and the Frightful Four at various points in her history.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Roxxon Energy Corporation</span> Fictional comic book oil company

The Roxxon Energy Corporation is a fictional massive petroleum industrial conglomerate in the Marvel Universe appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The company is depicted as having been run by various executives who are typically ready and eager to use any underhanded and illegal option to secure profits, up to and including violent crimes. As such, Roxxon is a consistent opponent of various superheroes.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Hercules (Marvel Comics)</span> Marvel Comics fictional character

Hercules Panhellenios is a character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Debuting in the Silver Age of Comic Books, the character is based on Heracles of Greek mythology. Since his first appearance, he has been a perennial member of the superhero team the Avengers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Malekith the Accursed</span> Comics character

Malekith the Accursed is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He is the ruler of the Dark Elves of Svartalfheim, and has come into conflict with Thor. He once wielded the Casket of Ancient Winters.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jane Foster</span> Comic book character

Jane Foster is a superhero appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by writers Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, and artist Jack Kirby, the character first appeared in Journey into Mystery #84. Jane Foster was introduced as a love interest of the superhero Thor Odinson until becoming a superhero in her own right.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Korg (character)</span> Character appearing in Marvel Comics

Korg is a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by writer Greg Pak and artist Carlo Pagulayan, the character first appeared in The Incredible Hulk (2000) #93 during the "Planet Hulk" storyline.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Laufey (character)</span> Marvel Comics character

Laufey is a supervillain appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The character is depicted usually as an enemy of the Asgardian king Odin, father of Thor. He is the King of the Frost Giants, the biological father of Thor's adopted brother and archenemy, Loki. Created by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, he first appeared in Journey into Mystery #112, and was based on the goddess of the same name.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Elves (Marvel Comics)</span> Fictional characters

There are many fictional Elves appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. The most common of the Elves are the Dark Elves of Svartalfheim and the Light Elves of Alfheim that are based on the elves of Norse mythology. They frequently appear in stories featuring the superhero Thor.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Serpent (character)</span> Comics character

The Serpent is a fictional supervillain appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Known as the Norse God of Fear, he is the brother of Odin and the uncle of Thor and Loki as well as a foe of both relatives, as well as the Avengers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Weapon H</span> Comics character

Weapon H is the name of a fictional character appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">The War of the Realms</span> Marvel Comics crossover event

"The War of the Realms" is a 2019 comic book storyline published by Marvel Comics, written by Jason Aaron and drawn by Russell Dauterman. The storyline has been met with positive reviews, with critics praising the storyline and the art.

References

  1. The Eternals vol. 2 #5. Marvel Comics.
  2. 1 2 Iron Man #24. Marvel Comics.
  3. Hercules and the Heart of Chaos #2. Marvel Comics.
  4. Wolverine/Hercules: Myths, Monsters, & Mutants #2. Marvel Comics.
  5. Deadpool: Dracula's Gauntlet #2. Marvel Comics.
  6. The Avengers #100. Marvel Comics.
  7. Uncanny X-Force #3. Marvel Comics.
  8. Uncanny X-Force #1. Marvel Comics.
  9. 1 2 Thor vol. 4 #6. Marvel Comics.
  10. Thor: God of Thunder #19.NOW. Marvel Comics.
  11. Thor: God of Thunder #20. Marvel Comics.
  12. Thor: God of Thunder #21. Marvel Comics.
  13. Thor: God of Thunder #22. Marvel Comics.
  14. Thor: God of Thunder #23. Marvel Comics.
  15. Thor: God of Thunder #24. Marvel Comics.
  16. Thor vol. 4 #7. Marvel Comics.
  17. Morris, Bryce (October 16, 2020). "Does Thor Villain The Minotaur Have More Money Than Iron Man?". ScreenRant. Retrieved September 17, 2024.
  18. Thor vol. 4 #8. Marvel Comics.
  19. The Mighty Thor vol. 2 #1. Marvel Comics.
  20. The Mighty Thor vol. 2 #8-11. Marvel Comics.
  21. Weapon H #1-6. Marvel Comics.
  22. Weapon H #7. Marvel Comics.
  23. Weapon H #8-9. Marvel Comics.
  24. Weapon H #11. Marvel Comics.
  25. Weapon H #12. Marvel Comics.
  26. The Punisher vol. 12 #1. Marvel Comics.
  27. War of the Realms #1. Marvel Comics.
  28. War of the Realms #3. Marvel Comics.
  29. War of the Realms #5. Marvel Comics.
  30. Thor vol. 5 #16. Marvel comics.
  31. The Immortal Hulk #28. Marvel Comics.
  32. The Immortal Hulk #29-30. Marvel Comics.
  33. The Immortal Hulk #31-32. Marvel Comics.
  34. The Immortal Hulk #33. Marvel Comics.
  35. Finley, Sean (March 25, 2020). "The Hulk's Minotaur Foe Just Turned Into Something MUCH WORSE". Screen Rant . Retrieved September 17, 2024.
  36. Lovett, Jamie (December 13, 2023). "Someone Just Bought Marvel Comics in the Marvel Universe". comicbook.com. Retrieved September 17, 2024.
  37. Anderson, Jenna (September 6, 2024). "Marvel Revives a Key Thor Villain". comicbook.com. Retrieved September 17, 2024.
  38. Lovett, Jamie (January 24, 2024). "Marvel Teases Big Changes to Thor". comicbook.com. Retrieved September 17, 2024.