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Karl Mordo

Last Updated on: October 18th, 2023

Who is Karl Mordo?

Karl Mordo is a complex character in Marvel Comics and a significant figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). He was created by writer Stan Lee and artist Steve Ditko and first appeared in “Strange Tales” #111 in 1963.

In the comics, Karl Mordo is originally a fellow disciple of the Ancient One, the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth, alongside Doctor Strange (Stephen Strange). He is depicted as a highly skilled sorcerer and practitioner of the mystical arts. However, unlike Doctor Strange, Mordo becomes envious and resentful of Strange’s rapid progress and potential to become the Ancient One’s successor.

Throughout the comics, Karl Mordo is a recurring antagonist to Doctor Strange. He seeks to eliminate Strange as a rival and take the title of Sorcerer Supreme for himself. Mordo is often depicted as a cunning and manipulative figure, willing to form alliances with dark forces and powerful entities to achieve his goals.

In the MCU, Karl Mordo is portrayed by actor Chiwetel Ejiofor. He first appears in “Doctor Strange” (2016) as one of the Ancient One’s most trusted disciples. However, in a departure from the comics, Mordo starts off as an ally and mentor to Doctor Strange, guiding him in his journey to become a sorcerer.

As the events of “Doctor Strange” unfold, Mordo becomes disillusioned with the Ancient One’s teachings, discovering that she draws power from the Dark Dimension, which he deems as a betrayal of their sacred principles. This revelation prompts him to abandon his former allies and set on a path of moral ambiguity, as he believes that the world has too many sorcerers who misuse their powers.

By the end of the film, Mordo becomes estranged from Doctor Strange, setting up his role as a potential antagonist in future MCU installments. His character’s arc emphasizes the gray areas between good and evil, raising questions about the ethics and consequences of wielding magical powers.

Karl Mordo’s character serves as a foil to Doctor Strange, challenging the hero’s beliefs and sense of responsibility as the Sorcerer Supreme. His descent into moral ambiguity adds depth to the mystical elements of the MCU, exploring the complexities of power and the different paths that individuals can take in their pursuit of it.

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