Why Did Red Skull Vanish to Vormir When He Holds the Tesseract?

The Infinity Stones are among the most powerful objects in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). When a character like the Red Skull attempted to use the Tesseract, also known as the Space Stone, he faced an unusual and severe consequence.

The Punishment of Red Skull

Red Skull was the only individual left on Vormir because of his unique connection with the Infinity Stones. When he attempted to use the Tesseract, it sent him to Vormir as a form of punishment. The Tesseract likely recognized Red Skull's malicious intent and deemed him unworthy of wielding its immense power.

Red Skull's punishment was a form of eternal servitude, guiding others towards the Soul Stone on Vormir, but he was never allowed to possess it himself. This punishment was particularly fitting given Red Skull's psychopathic nature and his desire for power and domination. Being so close to immense power yet unable to utilize it created a form of ultimate torment for him. This narrative underscores the moral themes of the MCU, where the misuse of power leads to downfall and exile.

The Incident with Captain America

Following a confrontation with Captain America, Red Skull grabbed the Tesseract, a move that triggered its more aggressive properties. The Tesseract, upon opening a wormhole into the cosmos, caused him excruciating pain, burning away the flesh from his hand as it transported him to Vormir.

The reason Red Skull was sent to Vormir is that the Space Stone has the ability to teleport people to other locations, including Vormir. This punishment was a direct result of Red Skull's misuse of the Tesseract.

Red Skull's Misunderstanding and Misuse

Red Skull's misunderstanding of the Tesseract's capabilities was typical of someone attempting to use a highly potent object without proper knowledge. He believed the Tesseract was an energy-projection weapon, akin to the Power Stone, rather than a means of intergalactic transport.

Red Skull, though a human with malicious intent, attempted to use the Tesseract in a direct and unprepared manner. In the MCU, we have never seen an organic humanoid creature access or even touch an Infinity Stone without a negative reaction, as the power simply overwhelms the body. Yet, rather than being immediately disintegrated, the Space Stone sent Red Skull across the universe, adding to his torment.

Thanos: The Protagonist of Use

In contrast, Thanos is a highly-durable alien and is very familiar with the Infinity Stones and the powers they grant. His knowledge of the stones led him to use the Infinity Gauntlet, a focus that allowed him to safely access and utilize the immensely powerful Infinity Stones.

While Red Skull's actions resulted in his exile and torment, a character like Thanos demonstrates how understanding and controlled use of the Infinity Stones can lead to significant power but also significant responsibility.

Keywords: Infinity Stones, Vormir, Red Skull