Understanding Continuity in the Marvel Cinematic Universe: The Tesseract in Captain Marvel and The Avengers

The concept of the Tesseract in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been a central plot device across multiple films. This article explores the complexity of the narrative choices made in The Avengers and Captain Marvel, particularly in relation to Nick Fury's statement about the Tesseract being sought for weapons development due to Thor.

The Context in The Avengers

In The Avengers, Nick Fury's line, 'They were trying to build weapons using the tesseract because of Thor,' is a response to the immediate threat posed by the Asgardian god as seen in the film's early scenes. The U.S. government and S.H.I.E.L.D. are reacting to the events in which Thor and Loki, associated with the Tesseract, invade Earth. This statement represents the government's short-term, reactive stance on the Tesseract's acquisition.

The Historical Context in Captain Marvel

Captain Marvel, on the other hand, provides a broader historical perspective. The film delves into the origins of the Tesseract and its connection to the Kree and Skrull conflict, revealing that the Tesseract has been in existence for an immense amount of time, well before Thor's arrival on Earth. The Kree have a deep interest in the Tesseract due to its immense power, which aligns with Fury's statement from a larger historical context.

Interpreting the Continuity Issues

The potential contradiction between the two films can be understood as a matter of perspective. Fury's comment reflects the Earth’s immediate response to new threats, while Captain Marvel delves into the broader cosmic implications of the Tesseract. The timeline and motivations of different factions in the MCU can often overlap, leading to complex narratives that may not always align perfectly.

Chronological Viewing Order

However, if one views the MCU in chronological order, the issue of continuity diminishes. Watching the films in production order, starting with Captain America: The First Avenger, then Captain Marvel, Iron Man 1, and Thor 1, before returning to Captain America: The First Avenger (to see the post-credits scene) and finally The Avengers (noting the helicarrier lab scene where Fury accuses Thor's people of why Earth people need Tesseract weapons), the narrative makes more sense. In this context, Fury's statement in The Avengers is consistent with the events seen in Captain Marvel.

Understanding Thor’s Knowledge

Even the all-knowing Thor, with his knowledge of the nine realms, is unaware of the Kree and Skrulls until he meets Captain Marvel’s allies in the Guardians of the Galaxy. During his journey to achieve the Infinity Stone, Thor likely learns about the Kree and Skrulls from his fellow warriors, such as Yondu and Rocket, who fill in the blanks of Earth's history.

By understanding these perspectives, we can appreciate the intricate narrative layers in the MCU and the complexity of the interconnected plotlines across its films.