Captain America’s shield is one of the most recognizable weapons in the history of comics. Not only does the vibranium shield keep Ol’ Cap safe, it is an important symbol of the character. There are many metaphors hidden behind the red, white and blue of Steve Roger’s shield.
Symbol of American Resilience
Captain America’s shield is a symbol of America’s resilience. No matter what is thrown at this country, we are able to survive and fight back. I remember back to a few months after 9/11 when I saw a t-shirt of Captain America’s shield with the words “9/11: We will Continue to Stand.” The shield is able to absorb the attacks Rogers has to face and our resilience is able to absorb the damage we take.
Captain America’s Shield
Character-Specific Weapon
Many characters from other heroes to Hydra agents have attempted to throw Captain America’s shield with his accuracy and ability to make it return to his hand. Only those he has taught have been able to wield the shield the correct way. Just like Thor’s Mjolnir, Captain America’s shield is a perfect weapon which cannot normally be used by others. Characters sometimes fall victim to their own abilities and powers, but Cap’s shield cannot be used against the master wielder. The shield ads depth to the character and gives him another ace in the hole.
Captain America’s Shield is America
My favorite metaphor to be found behind Captain America’s shield comes in the form of the shield being America. Not only does the Cap stand for America, but America stands for the Cap. America is Captain America’s truest shield. When Marvel “killed” Captain America during Civil War, countless fans backlashed against the company. In the comics, Steve is now on his way to the presidency since people believe he is the best person to lead the country. Too bad we don’t have leaders like him in government.
There are at least a dozen other minor metaphors to be found in Captain America’s shield. Which are your favorites?
