Understanding the Tragic Ouverture: Why Didn't Odin Train Thor and Loki Better in Thor: Ragnarok?

In the thrilling universe of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the character of Thor: Ragnarok brings forth a plethora of narrative complexities. One of the discussions that often arises revolves around why Odin didn’t train his children, Thor and Loki, better to combat the eventual return of Hela. This editorial delves into the intricacies, focusing on the background, the characters, and the broader narrative implications.

Background and Context

The backdrop of the narrative is set in the context of the Norse mythological universe, where Hela, the/** Goddess of Death**, was exiled to Hel. This act necessitated a profound understanding of the cosmic forces at play. Odin, as the Allfather and ruler of Asgard, was acutely aware of the dangers that might arise from Hela's potential return, yet he did not equip his children with the power they might need for their quest. This decision raises significant questions about his strategic approach to protecting Asgard.

Odin's Training Philosophy

It is important to note that Odin did ensure that both Thor and Loki received extensive training. They were prepared for battles and challenges, as evident in their experiences in numerous fights prior to the events of Ragnarok. However, the question remains: was it sufficient given the magnitude of the threat posed by Hela?

Odin saw to it that Thor and Loki were trained extensively, as reflected in their readiness to face their enemies. For Thor, his experience in battling the giant Megadeth in The Mighty Thor and his multitude of adventures as Mjolnir's wielder attest to a formidable level of preparation. Similarly, Loki, despite his mischievous tendencies, was also a combatant with a respectable level of skill.

However, according to Odin, the fight against Hela was not merely about physical prowess. Hela was described as an entity of immense power, on a par with Odin himself. She gained her power from the Allfather, making her a formidable foe who could match the might of even Asgard's most powerful guardian.

Key Points:

Hela's Power: Hela's powers are described as Odin-level powerful, suggesting a level of cosmic power that transcends conventional warfare. Cosmic Source: Odin drew his powers from Asgard, and Hela's powers stemmed from this same source, rendering her limitless once she reached Asgard. Confinement: To contain Hela, Odin exiled her to Hel, ensuring that her confinement prevented her from accessing Asgard and unleashing her full power.

Strategic Limitations

One must consider the strategic limitations Odin faced. Exposing Thor and Loki to the full extent of Hela's power might have been counterproductive, as they might have learned to harness this energy, leading to their own corruption or degeneration into the same dark forces that Hela represented.

Imprisoning Hela

By imprisoning Hela far from Asgard in Hel, Odin aimed to safeguard the realm from her wrath. The confines of Hel prevent her from directly overwhelming Asgard with her immense power. As long as Odin was alive and within Asgard, he could counterbalance Hela's power, maintaining the balance.

However, when Loki exiled Odin from Asgard, he inadvertently initiated a series of events that weakened Hela's confinement. This action not only allowed Hela to break free but also created a dire situation for Asgard. Loki's own motivations and actions thus played a pivotal role in escalating the conflict.

The Confrontation and Hela's Power

Upon Odin's death, the balance shifted. With the Odinforce diminishing, Hela's power surged uncontrollably, culminating in her triumphant return. This moment highlights the profound impact of this strategic misstep. Hela's power became too great for even Odin to contain, leading to her relentless assault on Asgard.

The climactic scene in Thor: Ragnarok illustrates the dire consequences. Hela effortlessly crushes Mjolnir with one hand, symbolizing her overwhelming might. The entity of the realm of death is no longer constrained by cosmic forces, leading to the existential threat to Asgard.

Conclusion

In closing, Odin's decision to not train Thor and Loki more extensively was a result of strategic and cosmic considerations. The immense power of Hela, coupled with her direct link to the source of Asgard's power, necessitated a more nuanced and cautious approach. While the exiling of Hela and Odin's own efforts to maintain balance initially succeeded, the delicate equilibrium was undone by Loki's actions, resulting in the catastrophic events of Ragnarok.

Understanding the complexities of cosmic warfare and the subtle dynamics at play in Thor: Ragnarok provides valuable insights into the broader narrative and the challenges faced by the characters. The lessons learned in this tale extend beyond character development to shed light on the broader themes of power, corruption, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness in the MCU.