Was Hive the First Inhuman in the Marvel Universe?

The Marvel Comics universe presents a complex and evolving narrative, with characters and events being redefined and recontextualized across different media. One such character is Hive, who is often considered one of the earliest introduced inhumans. However, the nature and origins of Hive differ significantly between comic book canon and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Comics Canon: Hive Not Initially an Inhuman

In the comic book universe, Hive is indeed one of the earliest inhumans introduced. However, it's important to note that Hive, also known as Centaurim, was not originally an inhuman. Instead, he was created by HYDRA, the terrorist organization. This backstory places Hive in a unique position within the Marvel lore, as he was a creation of human manipulation rather than a natural offspring of the Inhuman race.

MCU Adaptation: HYDRA’s Role and Inhuman Background

In the MCU, the narrative around Hive's origins is quite different. The comic book version of HYDRA, a Nazi organization, is reimagined as a cult working to resurrect Hive. This cult was then appropriated by the Nazis, and later the Soviets, before becoming a more general terrorist organization. In the MCU, HYDRA's history is expanded, and its relation to Hive and the broader inhuman lore is more intertwined.

Marvel's Agents of SHIELD and the MCU Inhumans

According to Agents of SHIELD, a spin-off of the MCU, Hive’s connection to HYDRA is established, aligning more closely with the comic book history. In this series, Hive is seen as a product of human manipulation, supporting the idea that he was initially not an inhuman. The critical failure of the Inhumans TV series left a gap in the narrative, making the comic book version of Inhuman lore seem incompatible with the perceived more successful version seen in Agents of SHIELD.

Future of Inhumans in the MCU

The future of Inhumans in the MCU remains uncertain. Given the critical failure of the Inhumans series, the MCU is likely to selectively use the comic book lore that resonates with fans. This might mean that characters like Black Bolt and his family may not return, but newly introduced characters could be based on the comic book lore, such as the Secret Warriors. Daisy Johnson, played excellently by Chloe Bennet, is expected to continue her role in future MCU productions, highlighting the importance of specific characters in the broader narrative.

In conclusion, while Hive is often seen as one of the first inhumans in the comic book universe, his origins and place within the broader narrative of the Inhumans are complex and adapt to different storytelling needs across different mediums. The interplay between comic books and the MCU will continue to be a fascinating area of study for fans and scholars alike.