The heroic character of Ms. Marvel is still a newcomer in the Marvel Comics, but the storyline “Dark Web” has allowed her to contemplate her own development and growth.
Ms. Marvel is a relative newcomer to the Marvel Comics, but she has quickly become a prominent figure in the Marvel Universe, participating in its major events. Despite this, “Dark Web: Ms. Marvel #1” demonstrates that Kamala Khan is still underestimating her own impact. A clash with the Inventor, her first villain, uncovers Kamala’s persistence in wanting to be like Captain Marvel.
Lucky for Kamala, her friends and allies were there to remind her that she possesses the same level of brilliance as Carol Danvers. Despite her growth in self-confidence, Kamala still has not fully recognized her inspirational effect on others. Nevertheless, given some time, she will come to see her own remarkable qualities.
Ms. Marvel Still Wants to be Captain Marvel
Kamala faced a tough challenge when the Inventor ambushed her with a team of resurrected geniuses, but she managed to overcome it. However, the Inventor eventually used a weapon to control her powers and make her shapeshift into her subconscious desire. The final outcome was a crucial moment in Kamala’s personal growth. She transformed into her own version of Captain Marvel, not Carol Danvers! The Inventor noted this change and was impressed to see her feel comfortable in her own skin. He had expected things differently but the outcome satisfied him.
Interestingly, Kamala’s powers initially changed her into Carol Danvers, complete with her skin color and blonde hair, when she first got them. This was a manifestation of Kamala’s discomfort with her own body and her desire to fit in. However, she has come a long way since then, embracing her identity and history with pride. This was a remarkable achievement, and was even acknowledged by her first enemy. Despite this, the fact that Kamala subconsciously wants to be Captain Marvel highlights another underlying issue.
Ms. Marvel Doesn’t Appreciate Her Full Worth
It’s not surprising to see Ms. Marvel as a successor to Captain Marvel. Carol Danvers gave up the role to become Captain Marvel, indicating that it was a step up. Kamala probably feels the same about this because she wants to be her own version of Captain Marvel. She feels like it would prove her worthiness. This is an unjust perception as Kamala’s biggest critic is she herself. But thankfully, her loved ones are always there to help her overcome her own self-doubt.
A post-battle conversation with Spider-Man later revealed that he used Ms. Marvel as a a guide on how to help those trapped inside a mosque that was possessed. He went on to say that Ms. Marvel is a hero to all and a constant source of inspiration, regardless of her identity. This was exactly what Kamala needed to hear. Despite her modesty, she often finds it difficult to live up to her own expectations. But with this reminder from her past, she can see how much she has grown from a shy girl with powers to a hero who inspires those around her.
