King Mob (character)
King Mob is a fictional character appearing in Grant Morrison's comic book series The Invisibles. He is a key member and often considered the leader of the Invisibles cell operating out of London.
Character Overview:
King Mob is portrayed as a charismatic, dangerous, and unpredictable counter-cultural revolutionary. He is a skilled fighter, strategist, and occultist, often relying on chaos and psychological warfare tactics to disrupt the established order and fight against the Archons, the alien controllers of humanity.
Personality and Abilities:
King Mob's personality is a complex mix of intelligence, ruthlessness, and dark humor. He possesses a deep understanding of magic, history, and conspiracy theories. His methods are often extreme and morally ambiguous, reflecting the desperate nature of the war the Invisibles are fighting.
King Mob's abilities include:
- Occult Knowledge: Extensive knowledge of magic, ritual, and symbolism.
- Martial Arts: Proficient in hand-to-hand combat and weaponry.
- Leadership: Inspires and commands the Invisibles cell, albeit through unconventional means.
- Psychological Manipulation: Skilled in using psychology to influence and destabilize his opponents.
- Lucid Dreaming: He's capable of entering and manipulating the dream world.
Role in The Invisibles:
King Mob recruits and trains new Invisibles, leads missions against the Archons, and acts as a mentor and father figure to the other members of his cell, particularly Jack Frost. He is a driving force behind the Invisibles' efforts to awaken humanity and fight against the forces of control. Throughout the series, he grapples with his own demons and the moral consequences of his actions. His true name is never revealed, adding to the mystique surrounding the character. He represents the radical potential and inherent dangers of revolution.
Influences:
The character of King Mob is heavily influenced by counter-cultural figures, occultists, and historical revolutionaries. He draws inspiration from figures like Aleister Crowley, Guy Fawkes, and various revolutionary leaders. The name "King Mob" itself refers to a historical phrase used to describe unruly crowds and the potential for social unrest.