Understanding Thanos' Facial Scars: A Misunderstood Legend

The enigmatic and intimidating appearance of Thanos from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has fascinated fans since his introduction. His prominent facial scars, particularly the one across his left cheek, are often the subject of curiosity and speculation. Many believe these scars are a testament to his violent past and the battles he has faced. However, delving deeper into Lesser-Known Marvel lore reveals a very different origin story for Thanos' scars.

Origins of Thanos' Scars

It is widely accepted that Thanos' scars are a physical manifestation of his violent actions, often attributed to battles and encounters. Yet, the true origin of these scars has been a mystery. Recent lesser-explored stories reveal that Thanos was born with a rare disease called Deviant Syndrome, which caused him to look different from the other Titans. This condition made him relatable to mutants in the X-Men universe, much like Nightcrawler and Raven.

A Handpicked Guard Dog

The comics do not provide detailed information about the origins of Thanos' scars, but recent theories suggest an interesting backstory. It is believed that Thanos was either born with the scars or received them from a warrior whose planet he decimated. This theory is supported by a lesser-known comic story where Thanos' scars are linked to his first pet, a loyal beast named Lockjaw.

Lockjaw and the Inhumans

Lockjaw was a pet given to Thanos by his parents, who were members of the powerful race known as the Eternals. The Eternals, including Thanos' parents, were loaned Lockjaw by the Royal Inhumans, led by King Black Bolt. This was a strategic move to manage Thanos, who was categorized as a Deviant due to the Deviant Syndrome he was born with.

Childhood Terrors and Scarring

Lockjaw, known for his incredible abilities, including super-canine strength, teleportation, precognition, and matter ingestion, was given to Thanos to give him experience. However, Thanos did not welcome Lockjaw's presence kindly. Upon receiving his "gift," Thanos immediately tried to push Lockjaw off a cliff. Lockjaw, unaware that Thanos was a Deviant, attempted to protect himself and severely scarred Thanos using his incredible powers.

The Battle and Scarring

Lockjaw, not recognizing Thanos as a Deviant, tried to protect himself and used his super-strength and teleportation to knock Thanos to the ground. He then locked his jaw on Thanos' face, leaving permanent scars. Thanos, in a fit of anger and pain, started to cry and pretended to be hurt. His parents, upon seeing this, told him, "See! Little Thanny is having so much fun! Let’s leave him with Lockjaw for a week!"

Thanos never talked about that week again. Upon his parents' return, Lockjaw was sent back home, and his name was never again mentioned in front of Thanos. Lockjaw became a legend for his bravery and protective nature, but the scars on Thanos' face remained as a testament to that fateful day.

The Goodbye Gift

Years later, the Pet Avengers, a group of superheroes including Lockjaw, gathered up all of the Infinity Gems and placed them on Lockjaw's collar. With the combined force of all the Infinity Gems, Lockjaw was able to fell Thanos with one powerful blast of energy. After the fight, Lockjaw used his teleportation powers to place Thanos in another dimension, a move that would haunt Thanos for years to come.

The true origin of Thanos' facial scars is a testament to the complex and sometimes tragic nature of the character. What was once thought to be a sign of violence and conflict is now understood as a symbol of childhood trauma and the inevitable consequences of his true origin.