While Doctor Strange has only had one film released in his series, he’s been present in some of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most significant battles, even facing off against Thanos on his own. His presence and the inclusion of magic also significantly impact the larger MCU in ways that continue to be felt. One example of this can be found in his first film, where one of the books mentioned may predict the future of Phase Four and the character himself.
In Doctor Strange, Wong introduces Strange to a collection of books that were written centuries ago. The texts include The Book of the Invisible Sun, Astronomia Nova, Codex Imperium and Key of Solomon, among others. But what is most interesting in this collection is the Key of Solomon. While not explained in the film, this book has many design aesthetics that mirror the geometric designs used when sorcerers conjure magic. For example, each spell includes unique pentacle designs that help make up constructs like a shield or fan. They also often serve as a foundation for large incantations.
The movie also doesn’t make a note of how Key of Solomon is split into two books. The first volume focuses on conjuring, invocations, gaining favor and curses. As a result, users can also educate themselves on demon control. Interestingly, many factors from the first book are put into play during Doctor Strange. For example, the zealots use magic to try and gain favor with Dormammu, while Strange tries to control him via the Time Stone. Thus, while the book isn’t directly used, the film’s throughline appears to follow the book’s base teachings.
The second book in the Key of Solomon focuses more on exorcisms, sacrifices and how changing one’s robes can affect a spell. While it seems ‘strange,’ these factors already look to be in play in the current MCU phase. For example, in Spider-Man: No Way Home, there is a change of clothing with Peter going from his upgraded suit to a gold and black one. There may also be a degree of sacrifice, though nothing drastic, to have the world forget Peter’s secret identity. However, even more factors from the second book could come into play in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, as the second book deals in darker spells, and his next film will, in turn, be much darker. For now, the path isn’t set, but it’s an odd coincidence how well the books are lining up with Strange’s journeys.
For now, there’s no confirmation that the Key of Solomon plays a massive role in Doctor Strange’s life or the MCU’s Phase Four. But one thing is certain: the level of detail to include an actual book on sorcery is a testament to the people over at Marvel Studios. When given a situation where they could easily make up a book, including an actual text adds even more layers to the universe and makes it feel more tangible than ever.
There’s still some time before Spider-Man and Doctor Strange’s story continues. Until then, there will be room for even more speculation. But one true thing is that Doctor Strange often has many layers to his life and character that are full of surprises. Whether or not the Key of Solomon plays a part in deciphering them remains to be seen but could, at least, be a step in the right direction.
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