Why Didn't Hela Use Gungnir to Activate the Bifrost in Thor: Ragnarok?

The question why Hela didn’t use Gungnir to open the Bifrost in Thor: Ragnarok has been a subject of much discussion in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) community. The lack of Gungnir with Odin is often cited as the reason, but this is just the surface. Let’s delve deeper into the possible reasons behind this in-universe decision and explore the implications of the Odinforce.

Understanding the Plot Dynamics

It’s true that in Thor, both Odin and Loki used Gungnir to activate the Bifrost, and in Ragnarok, Odin was seen attempting to bring the Bifrost sword to Heimdall to activate it. The absence of Gungnir with Odin could indeed be seen as a plot hole, but it is also a testament to the meticulous planning and discipline of Hela.

Hela's Pragmatism and Control

Hela, known for her perfectionism and control, would not casually delegate important tasks to just anyone. The Bifrost is one of the most important gateways in Asgard, and Hela’s focus was crystal clear. Her refusal to use Gungnir, even in the absence of Odin, suggests a deep-seated strategy. Hela believed that using the staff without Odin’s intent could lead to unpredictable outcomes.

The Power of Odinforce

Odin’s staff, Gungnir, is more than just a powerful weapon; it is a vessel for the Odinforce. The Odinforce is a potent source of power that can be harnessed to control the Bifrost. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the power of Odin is not explicitly referred to as Odinforce, but it does exist in the comics and may be present in the MCU. This power allows Odin to control the Bifrost directly.

When Odin died, the Norn Stones and Mjolnir were extensions of his power. For a ruler to wield the Bifrost, they must possess the Odinforce. Since Thor did not want to be king and therefore is not consideredworthy, he could not have wielded the Bifrost. Hela, the eldest and most powerful of Odin’s progeny, should have had access to the Odinforce, but she did not use Odin’s staff.

The Odinforce and Its Limitations

Interestingly, in the comics, Mjolnir is a symbol of the Odinforce, and Odin reportedly carried the magical spear Gungnir in battles against powerful opponents. In Ultimate Comics: Thor, Odin explains to Thor that the Norn Stones and Mjolnir are extensions of his own power. This information provides a crucial insight into why Hela did not use Gungnir: she understood that the staff would be powerless without Odin’s intent.

Even if Hela had taken Odin’s staff, it would have been rendered useless. The Odinforce cannot be transferred; it is tied to the person who possesses it. Without Odin, Gungnir would lack its full power, and Hela would have realized this. Therefore, she chose not to rely on a tool that would not function as intended.

Conclusion

The decision not to use Gungnir in Thor: Ragnarok is a strategic choice rooted in the concept of Odinforce and Hela’s understanding of power dynamics. While the absence of Gungnir with Odin could be seen as a plot hole, it also highlights the importance of symbolism and control within Asgard. Understanding the role of the Odinforce and the limitations of Gungnir helps us appreciate the complexity of the narrative in the MCU.