The Unlikely Scenario: Bucky Bears the Heart-Shaped Herb in Wakanda

Imagine if Bucky Barnes, the former Winter Soldier, received the heart-shaped herb in Wakanda. This hypothetical situation delves into the potential repercussions for both Bucky and the broader Marvel Universe, particularly the concept of peak human versus superhuman abilities.

Impact on Bucky Barnes

If we are to consider the broader universe of the Marvel Comics, the heart-shaped herb, often associated with the Black Panther, has potent magical properties that can grant enhanced physical and mental attributes. Given that the herb is traditionally reserved for Wakanda's royal family, the scenario where Bucky, a former Soviet soldier, takes it presents several challenges.

Historically, the heart-shaped herb has been noted to pose risks to non-natives. Only those of royal blood can consume it safely, as evidenced by instances where outsiders have died from ingestion. Consequently, the chances of Bucky surviving this herbal concoction are slim to none.

Classification of Super Enhanced Humans

Envisioning a scenario where Bucky ingests the heart-shaped herb changes his status from a formerly normal human to a super-enhanced individual. This transformation would likely result in his reclassification as an "enhanced human," a category distinct from traditional superheroes.

Comparisons between Bucky Barnes and Captain America

Historically, T'Challa, the Black Panther, has been depicted as significantly more powerful than Steve Rogers, also known as Captain America. In the 616 continuity, T'Challa's strength, speed, and agility far surpass Rogers, thanks to his divine empowerment through the heart-shaped herb.

Despite Captain America being described as a peak human in various canonical sources, his abilities do not compare to those of the Black Panther. This is evidenced by multiple strength and speed feats:

Black Panther's feats include using a flaming tree as a spear, throwing a spear through solid stone, and beating up Vlad the Impaler. Speed and reflexes: T'Challa can run at speeds surpassing Olympic-class runners and easily dodge the punches of characters like Mr. Fantastic and the Human Torch.

These examples highlight that, in the context of peak human potential, T'Challa's abilities exceed Rogers' in the 616 universe.

Real Superhuman vs. Peak Human

The distinction between a real superhuman and a peak human is significant. While Captain America is the pinnacle of human physical perfection, characters like the Black Panther and Kraven the Hunter push beyond these capabilities, earning the title of real superhumans. This raises the question of whether Bucky, if enhanced by the heart-shaped herb, would also fall into the superhuman category.

Numbers and Comparisons

Strength (tons): Steve Rogers - 1-3 tons; T'Challa - 2-5 tons. Speed: Steve Rogers - human peak; T'Challa - 35 mph or faster.

While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) often portrays Steve and T'Challa as equal, this is more of a narrative convenience rather than an accurate representation of their abilities. In the broader comic universe, T'Challa is indeed superhuman, while Steve remains in the realm of peak human.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The hypothetical scenario of Bucky taking the heart-shaped herb in Wakanda paints a vivid picture of enhanced human capabilities. While it's unlikely that Bucky would survive, the potential for him to become a superhuman challenges the established archetypes in the Marvel Universe. This raises intriguing questions about the evolution of peak human and superhuman status and the boundaries between them.