Marvel has given us some of the best female characters to root for in comics history, from those with galactic powers, to those simply trying to do the right thing, or both!
They are role models and heroes; they are friends and inspirations.
While there are so many wonderful female characters in Marvel canon, these are just 10 of my favorites who have influenced me and shown me what it means to be a hero.
(As a note, Peggy Carter would absolutely be on this list if it was MCU based and not comic based.)
Top Ten Marvel Heroines
10. Medusa
I discovered Medusa rather late in my relationship with comics; I was far too busy the X-Men, who have always been my favorite team. But when I first read anything with the Inhumans, I was blown away by Medusa.
As queen, she is regal, fair, and guided by a fierce collection of morals. Her loyalty to her people, her husband (Black Bolt), and her allies make her a strong hero in the Marvel universe. Not to mention her gorgeous hair, and all its abilities, is pretty awesome.
9. Valkyrie
This Asgardian warrior is as strong and ferocious as Thor and if you don’t believe me, well, even Thor would take issue with that.
She is based on the Norse figure Brynhildr and was chosen by Odin to lead the Valkyrior, a group of warrior goddesses who ride winged horses. She has led them alongside Misty Knight, and later joined Earth’s Defenders.
8. Jennifer Walters (She-Hulk)
Jennifer Walters is the cousin of Bruce Banner and when she once received a blood transfusion from him, she gained a milder version of the Hulk condition, which later on become permanent.
But not only is she capable and heroic as a member of teams like the Avengers and Fantastic Four, she is also a highly skilled lawyer and has served as legal counsel for various superheroes in the Marvel universe. You’ve been served.
7. Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow)
The Russian spy in recent years has become one of the most popular and recognizable Marvel characters, mostly thanks to the MCU. She is a deeply complex and skilled character, often working to atone for past actions.
Her character history is beyond rich, from being trained by the Winter Soldier in the Red Room in Russia, to her defection to the United States and joining up with the Avengers.
6. Jessica Drew (Spider-Woman)
Jessica Drew is one of my all-time favorite heroes, and yes, it’s partly because of her cool powers (she can manipulate men with pheromones!), but it’s mostly because of her tough resolve as a hero.
She hasn’t had the easiest life (which hero has?), which comes out in her sarcastic personality, but she proves her loyalty to her friends (specifically one Carol Danvers) time and time again.
5. Emma Frost
Sure, she may have began as a villain, but Emma Frost has since become one the most important leaders, and heroes, of the X-Men. She also happens to be another of my ultimate favorite Marvel characters.
Her cold personality gives way to an inner tenacity that has seen her through many trying times. As a mutant, she believes so firmly in her people and wanting a good future for them. The X-Men have forever been changed by her leadership.
4. Ororo Munroe (Storm)
Speaking of mutant leaders, though, the X-Men certainly wouldn’t be where they are today if it wasn’t for Ororo Munroe aka Storm. This mutant, with the ability to control the weather and elements, is a warm and resilient character, who sticks by her morals.
Not to mention she was once Queen of Wakanda alongside Black Panther, and she made an absolutely stunning and remarkable queen.
3. Sue Storm (Invisible Woman)
Sue Storm has been a core part of the Marvel Universe since she first appeared in 1961 as one of the main members of the Fantastic Four. Since then, she has remained a crucial character for various events and characters, often being seen as a role model.
Her warmth and maternal nature are never ridiculed; in fact, they are part of what make her so admirable. Plus she’s a kick-ass fighter too.
2. Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel)
Kamala Khan may be relatively new to Marvel, but she has already proven herself as both a popular and influential hero. As the first Muslim character to headline her own series, she is changing comics one day at a time.
She’s an Inhuman with the ability to shape-shift, and even more than that, she is a fully realized, complex, and wonderful character. Her admiration for superheroes is endearing, but nothing beats her journey in becoming a superhero herself. There’s no doubt in my mind she’ll go down in history as one of the best and most influential Marvel characters.
1. Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel)
Part human, part Kree, all badass. Carol Danvers is one of the foremost leaders and heroes of the universe, often standing alongside the likes of Captain America and Iron Man. She began as a member of the United States Air Force before getting involved with the original Captain Marvel and being affected by a Kree explosion.
Since then, she has traveled the world, and galaxies, saving the day and inspiring girls everywhere. The Carol Corps is an important aspect of her character and proof of the far-reaching effects she’s had. And get ready to see her headline her own film in 2019!
