In “Avengers: Endgame,” the fate of the universe hung in the balance as the Avengers sought to reverse the devastation caused by Thanos by executing time travel to collect the Infinity Stones from different timelines.
Among the mightiest heroes, Thor, the God of Thunder, seemed like a prime candidate to wield the powerful Infinity Gauntlet and perform the critical snap.
Although Thor had the strength to survive the gauntlet’s immense power, the Avengers ultimately chose Hulk for this monumental task.
This decision was rooted in complex considerations. Let’s find out why!.
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Thor’s Resilience and Power
Thor, an Asgardian god, is no stranger to facing formidable challenges.
His confrontation with the neutron star to forge Stormbreaker stands as a testament to his extraordinary durability and strength.
This feat alone suggests that Thor could theoretically handle the lethal gamma radiation emitted by the Infinity Gauntlet during the snap.
His godly physiology, capable of withstanding cosmic forces, positions him as a seemingly ideal candidate for the task.
Mental and Emotional Stability as Crucial Criteria
However, wielding the Infinity Stones requires more than just brute strength.
The user must possess mental clarity and emotional stability to direct the Infinity Stones’ immense power effectively.
During “Endgame,” Thor grapples with deep-seated guilt and a sense of failure stemming from his inability to stop Thanos earlier.
This emotional turmoil could cloud his judgment, making the precision required to control the Stones’ power potentially out of reach.
The Avengers recognized that the task at hand was not only about who could physically survive the snap but also about who could mentally and emotionally manage the burden.
This realization brought the discussion beyond mere physical capabilities to the wielder’s psychological state, highlighting a nuanced understanding of the challenges posed by the Infinity Stones.
Why Smart Hulk Was Chosen Over Thor
In weighing their options, the Avengers leaned towards Bruce Banner, or Smart Hulk, who combined Hulk’s resilience with Banner’s intellect and emotional composure.
This unique blend of qualities made him particularly suited to navigate the complexities of the snap.
Smart Hulk’s understanding of gamma radiation, coupled with his stable mental state, provided the precision and control needed to ensure the snap’s success without unintended consequences.
The decision to choose Hulk over Thor was strategic, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to such a high-stakes task.
It reflected a deep appreciation for the intricacies involved in wielding the Infinity Stones and underscored the collective wisdom of the Avengers in recognizing the right person for the job.