Balder the Brave is a name that may not be familiar to many Marvel fans, but he is a key figure in Norse mythology and the comics. He is the half-brother of Thor, the son of Odin and Frigga, and one of the bravest and most loyal warriors of Asgard. He also has a crucial role in the prophecy of Ragnarok, the end of the world.
Balder made his debut in the Marvel comics in 1962, in Journey into Mystery #85. He was a close friend and ally of Thor, and often fought alongside him and the Warriors Three against various enemies. He was also loved by all living things, except for Loki, who envied and hated him.
In 2008, Balder learned that he was actually Thor’s half-brother, and was chosen by Odin to be the new king of Asgard after his death. Balder faced many challenges as a ruler, such as a war with Doctor Doom, a siege by Norman Osborn, and the return of Loki. He also had to deal with his feelings for Karnilla, the queen of the Norns, who was his lover and sometimes his enemy.
In Norse mythology, Balder is known as the god of light, joy, purity, and beauty. He is beloved by all the gods and goddesses, except for Loki, who plots to kill him. Loki discovers that Balder is invulnerable to everything except mistletoe, and tricks his blind brother Hoder into throwing a mistletoe dart at him. Balder dies from the wound, and his death triggers the onset of Ragnarok.
Balder has not yet appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but he was referenced in the second season of Loki. In episode 3, Loki mentions that he once turned into a snake and bit Balder as a prank. This implies that Balder exists in the MCU, but his whereabouts and status are unknown.
Balder could potentially join the MCU in future projects, such as Thor: Love and Thunder or Loki Season 3. He could add more depth and drama to Thor’s family and Asgard’s history. He could also be involved in a possible adaptation of Ragnarok or another cosmic event. Balder is a character that deserves more attention and recognition from Marvel fans, as he is one of the bravest heroes of Asgard.
