Carnage has always been one of the vilest symbiotes in Marvel Comics. But he may have found new inspiration thanks to his father, Venom.
WARNING: The following contains major spoilers for Carnage #1, available now from Marvel Comics.
Over the years, the Marvel Universe has had its fair share of serial killers and megalomaniacs with their own motivations and methods. But none of them have stuck out nearly as much as Carnage.
The Freddy Krueger of the Marvel Universe, Carnage, and its host, Cletus Kasady, would break the laws of physics, traveling through telephone wires to kill, dismember and foster general chaos. But in Carnage #1 (by Ram V, Francesco Manna, Dijjo Lima, and VC’s Joe Sabino), the crimson terror has a new perspective on life heavily inspired by its parent Symbiote, Venom.
Ever since the King in Black event by Donny Cates and Ryan Stegman, Carnage and Cletus hasn’t been a unit. Because of this, the Symbiote has finally had the agency to go its way. In its first issue, it appeared to a serial killer named Kenneth Neely, who called to Carnage in hopes that it would take him as a new host. Instead, Carnage decided to keep him around as he missed Cletus’ talking, but in terms of bonding, the alien had other plans. It quickly showcased a trapped Hydro-Man that Carnage dismembered on a molecular level to absorb his power seemingly. But it’s unclear if its new goal in life is to achieve its version of Godhood.
Compared to a character like Venom, its most recent comics run set Eddie Brock up to be the new King in Black while Venom must adjust to being even more heroic when bonded with Eddie’s son Dylan. It’s a change of course for a character best known for being a lethal protector. However, it has helped evolve the alien’s characterization and given int new obstacles to overcome. In comparison, Carnage seemed to be going in a direction that could meet Venom’s more heroic growth. But rather than be an ally, Carnage could become something much worse.
During Carnage’s first issue, the Symbiote mentioned how while it loved the killing and violence, it was more Cletus’ preference than its own. However, it has appeared to be taking on a new path that still involves murder, but on a larger scale. After being a messenger for Knull, Carnage knew what it was like to be all-powerful rather than settle for everyday life. It wanted something greater.
Absorbing Hydro-Man’s power may have been the first step in the Symbiote’s quiet quest to amass strength and control over the known world so that it may become as strong or almost as strong as Knull. If true, this would make him a threat that Eddie, Dylan, and Venom would only be fit to handle. Unfortunately, what has made Carnage so terrifying over the years was how it cared so little for the casualties along its journey. As a result, there will likely be even more casualties before someone figures out his plan.
Ever since Knull was killed, Symbiotes have gained a new lease on life and are free to grow and evolve without the need of a host. Because of this, the good go on a path to become great, and the bad spiral further into villainy. Although Venom may have inspired Carnage to go its own way, it’s clear that there won’t be any room for two lethal protectors as one teased its most sinister plan yet.
About The Author
For all the latest Comics News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
