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{{Short description|Marvel Comics character}}
{{Short description|Marvel Comics character}}
{{Distinguish|Scarlet Scarab (DC Comics)}}
{{Infobox comics character| <!--Wikipedia:WikiProject Comics-->
{{Infobox comics character <!--Wikipedia:WikiProject Comics-->
image=
| image =File:Layla El-Faouly (2023 Design).webp
|caption=
| caption =Layla El-Faouly / Scarlet Scarab.<br>Textless variant cover of<br>''Moon Knight: City of the Dead'' #4 (October 2023).<br>Art by Liu Xiaotong.
|character_name=Scarlet Scarab
| character_name = Scarlet Scarab
|real_name='''First:'''<br/>Abdul Faoul<br/>'''Second:'''<br/>Mehemet Faoul
| real_name = {{ubl|'''First''':|Abdul Faoul|'''Second''':|Mehemet Faoul|'''Third''':|Layla El-Faouly}}
|species=
| species = '''All''':<br>Human mutate (empowered by the Ruby Scarab)
|publisher=[[Marvel Comics]]
| publisher = [[Marvel Comics]]
|debut='''First:'''<br/>''[[Invaders (comics)|The Invaders]]'' #23 (December 1977)<br/>'''Second:'''<br/>''[[Thor (Marvel Comics)|Thor]]'' #326 (December 1982)
| debut = {{ubl|'''First''':|''[[Invaders (comics)|The Invaders]]'' #23 (December 1977)|'''Second''':|''[[Thor (comic book)|Thor]]'' #326 (December 1982)|'''Third''':|"[[The Goldfish Problem]]"|''[[Moon Knight (miniseries)|Moon Knight]]'' (March 2022)}}
|creators='''First:'''<br/>[[Roy Thomas]], [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], and [[Frank Robbins]].<br/>'''Second:'''<br/>[[Doug Moench]] and [[Alan Kupperberg]].
| creators = {{ubl|'''First''':|[[Roy Thomas]]|[[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]]|[[Frank Robbins]]|'''Second''':|[[Doug Moench]]|[[Alan Kupperberg]]|'''Third''':|[[Jeremy Slater]]|[[Mohamed Diab]]}}
|alliances=
| alliances =
|aliases=
| aliases =
⚫
|powers=*Superhuman strength and durability
| powers = '''Both:'''
⚫
*Flight
⚫
* Superhuman strength and durability
*Fire concussive bursts of mystical energy
* Fire concussive bursts of mystical energy
*Ability to sap the power from others on contact
* Ability to sap the power from others on contact
⚫
* Flight
}}
}}
'''Scarlet Scarab''' is the name of two fictional characters appearing in [[American comic book]]s published by [[Marvel Comics]].
'''Scarlet Scarab''' is the name of three characters appearing in [[American comic book]]s published by [[Marvel Comics]]. Created by [[Roy Thomas]], [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], and [[Frank Robbins]], Abdul Faoul, the first Scarlet Scarab, made his first appearance in ''[[Invaders (comics)|The Invaders]]'' #23 (December 1977). The second Scarlet Scarab, Mehemet Faoul, was created by [[Doug Moench]] and [[Alan Kupperberg]], and made his debut in ''[[Thor (comic book)|Thor]]'' #326 (December 1982).


[[May Calamawy]] stars as '''[[Layla El-Faouly]]''' in the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] television series ''[[Moon Knight (miniseries)|Moon Knight]]'' (2022), with the character becoming the Scarlet Scarab in its final episode while predating her being introduced in the comics as the third Scarlet Scarab.
⚫
==Publication history==

==Development==

=== Concept and creation ===
⚫
According to Roy Thomas, the Scarlet Scarab, like the [[Hector Hall|Silver Scarab]] in ''[[Infinity, Inc.]]'', was an homage to the [[Blue Beetle (Dan Garrett)|Dan Garret]] incarnation of the [[Blue Beetle]] "about whom I had written my second professional comics story back in 1965."<ref name="Alter Ego" /> The creators of the Ruby Scarab were named Garret and Dann.

⚫
=== Publication history ===
The first Scarlet Scarab first appeared in ''[[Invaders (comics)|The Invaders]]'' #23 (December 1977), and was created by [[Roy Thomas]], [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], and [[Frank Robbins]]. The character also appeared in ''The Invaders'' #25 (February 1978).
The first Scarlet Scarab first appeared in ''[[Invaders (comics)|The Invaders]]'' #23 (December 1977), and was created by [[Roy Thomas]], [[Archie Goodwin (comics)|Archie Goodwin]], and [[Frank Robbins]]. The character also appeared in ''The Invaders'' #25 (February 1978).


The second Scarlet Scarab first appeared in ''[[Thor (Marvel Comics)|Thor]]'' #326 (December 1982), and was created by [[Doug Moench]] and [[Alan Kupperberg]]. He received an entry in the original ''The [[Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe]]'' #9.
The second Scarlet Scarab first appeared in ''[[Thor (Marvel Comics)|Thor]]'' #326 (December 1982), and was created by [[Doug Moench]] and [[Alan Kupperberg]]. He received an entry in the original ''The [[Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe]]'' #9.


A third Scarlet Scarab, based on the MCU incarnation, debuted in ''[[Moon Knight]]'' Vol. 9 #25 (September 2023) from writer Jed MacKay and art by Alessandro Cappuccio, Alessandro Vitti, and Partha Pratim.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/moon-knight-the-mcus-scarlet-scarab-to-make-marvel-comics-debut|title=Moon Knight: The MCU's Scarlet Scarab to Make Marvel Comics Debut|website=IGN|last=Schedeen|first=Jesse|date=April 19, 2023|access-date=April 19, 2023}}</ref> She appeared in the 2023 ''Moon Knight: City of the Dead'' series.<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 19, 2023 |title=The Scarlet Scarab Comes to Marvel Comics in 'Moon Knight: City of the Dead' |url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/comics/moon-knight-city-of-the-dead-scarlet-scarab-comics-debut |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=[[Marvel.com]]}}</ref>
⚫
According to Roy Thomas, the Scarlet Scarab, like the [[Hector Hall|Silver Scarab]] in ''[[Infinity, Inc.]]'', was an homage to the Dan Garret incarnation of the [[Blue Beetle]] "about whom I had written my second professional comics story back in 1965."<ref>[http://www.twomorrows.com/alterego/articles/01infinity.html The Secret Origin of Infinity Inc.], Roy Thomas and [[Jerry Ordway]], ''[[Alter Ego (magazine)|Alter Ego]]'' vol. 3 #1. Accessed 2011-03-23.</ref> The magician and warrior who created the Ruby Scarab were named Garret and Dann.


==Fictional character biography==
==Fictional character biography==
===Abdul Faoul===
===Abdul Faoul===
Abdul Faoul was a famous archaeologist during [[World War II]].<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Grant DeArmitt Contributions from George Marston |date=2022-05-04 |title=Scarlet Scarab - the obscure Marvel Comics history of the new Moon Knight superhero |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/scarlet-scarab-moon-knight-marvel-comics/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=gamesradar |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Li |first=Michael |date=2022-05-07 |title=Moon Knight Introduces a New Take on a Classic Marvel Character |url=https://www.cbr.com/moon-knight-layla-new-version-marvel/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=CBR |language=en-US}}</ref> He unearthed the Ruby Scarab, an artifact that was originally created to battle the [[Elementals (Marvel Comics)|Elementals]], around 3500 B.C. When Dr. Faoul touched the mystical power-object, he became the Scarlet Scarab and became a champion of [[Egypt]] during World War II.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Li |first=Michael |date=2022-05-07 |title=Moon Knight Introduces a New Take on a Classic Marvel Character |url=https://www.cbr.com/moon-knight-layla-new-version-marvel/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=CBR |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Farley |first=Lloyd |date=2022-05-06 |title='Moon Knight': Scarlet Scarab, Explained |url=https://collider.com/moon-knight-scarlet-scarab-layla-explained/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Collider |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zorrilla |first=Mónica Marie |title=Scarlet Scarab: 'Moon Knight' finale's biggest twist is a historic MCU first |url=https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/moon-knight-scarlet-scarab |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Inverse |date=5 May 2022 |language=en}}</ref>
Abdul Faoul was a famous archeologist during [[World War II]]. He unearthed the Ruby Scarab, an artifact that was originally created to battle the [[Elementals (Marvel Comics)|Elementals]], around 3500 B.C. When Dr. Faoul touched the mystical power-object, he became the Scarlet Scarab and became a champion of Egypt during World War II.{{issue|date=December 2012}}


Dr. Faoul worked as a liaison between the Allied Forces and the Egyptian government, and led the [[Human Torch (android)|Human Torch]] and [[Namor]] to a recently excavated pyramid in search of the fanatic nationalist group, the Sons of the Scarab. Faoul, who was actually the leader of the Sons of the Scarab, tricked the heroes into opening the vault where the fist-sized ruby was kept. As the Scarlet Scarab, he first ousted the British, and then the Nazis, from Egypt. Following the war, the Scarlet Scarab continued to battle criminals until one day in the 1950s, the ruby simply disappeared.{{issue|date=December 2012}}
Dr. Faoul worked as a liaison between the Allied Forces and the Egyptian government, and led the [[Human Torch (android)|Human Torch]] and [[Namor]] to a recently excavated pyramid in search of the fanatic nationalist group, the Sons of the Scarab, which was actually led by Faoul.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-05 |title=Who Is Scarlet Scarab? Are There Two Versions Of The Same Superhero? |url=https://fossbytes.com/who-is-scarlet-scarab-two-versions-same-superhero/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Fossbytes |language=en-US}}</ref> He tricked the heroes into opening the vault where the fist-sized ruby was kept. As the Scarlet Scarab, he first ousted the British, and then the Nazis, from Egypt. Scarlet Scarab continued to battle criminals after the war until the ruby simply disappeared in the 1950s, .{{cn|date=November 2022}}


Dr. Faoul had not realized that the gem's crafter, a powerful pre-dynastic Egyptian sorcerer named Garret, had placed an enchantment on it that it would return to Garret's tomb whenever it had exhausted its store of mystical power. Faoul spent the next twenty years in search of the ruby, not realizing it had returned to where he had found it. Eventually, the [[Elementals (Marvel Comics)|Elementals]] sent [[N'Kantu, the Living Mummy]] to fetch the ruby. The ruby changed hands a number of times after N'Kantu recovered it, going from the [[Living Monolith]], a thief named Daniel "the Asp" Aspen, the Elementals, and an extra-dimensional traveler named [[Hecate (Marvel Comics)|Hecate]],<ref>''Supernatural Thrillers'' Vol 1 8-15</ref> before exhausting its power once again and returning to its tomb.{{issue|date=December 2012}}
Dr. Faoul had not realized that the gem's crafter, a powerful pre-dynastic Egyptian sorcerer named Garret, had placed an enchantment on it that the ruby returns to Garret's tomb whenever it had used up its stored mystical power. Faoul searches for the ruby for twenty years, not realizing it had returned to where he had found it. Eventually, the Elementals sent [[N'Kantu, the Living Mummy]] to fetch the ruby. The ruby changed hands a number of times after N'Kantu recovered it, going from the [[Living Monolith]], a thief named Daniel "the Asp" Aspen, the Elementals, and an extra-dimensional traveler named [[Hecate (Marvel Comics)|Hecate]].<ref name="Supernatral Thrillers"/> Meanwhile, Dr. Faoul continued searching until his death. As his dying act, he requested his son Mehemet to continue his quest.<ref name="Mehemet" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Farley |first=Lloyd |date=2022-05-06 |title='Moon Knight': Scarlet Scarab, Explained |url=https://collider.com/moon-knight-scarlet-scarab-layla-explained/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Collider |language=en-US}}</ref>

Meanwhile, Dr. Faoul continued searching until his death. As his dying act, he requested his son Mehemet to continue his quest.{{issue|date=December 2012}}


===Mehemet Faoul===
===Mehemet Faoul===
Mehemet received from his father the strongbox in which he had kept the Ruby Scarab. Inside was the costume he had worn as the Scarlet Scarab, a journal of his exploits, and a photo of the ruby. Mehemet considered it his duty to continue his father's quest, searching for years as his father had. Finally, Mehemet came to the gem's final resting place. Holding the ruby, he gained the powers of the Scarlet Scarab, and set out to become Egypt's new champion. One of his goals was the protection of Egypt's priceless ancient artifacts. In one mission to recover some stolen artifacts, the Scarlet Scarab encountered [[Thor (Marvel Comics)|Thor]], who mistook his intentions and the two fought to a standstill.<ref>''Thor'' vol 1 #326 (Dec, 1982), w. Doug Moench.</ref>
Mehemet received from his father the strongbox he had used to store the Ruby Scarab. Inside was the costume he had worn as the Scarlet Scarab, a journal of his exploits, and a photo of the ruby. Mehemet considered it his duty to continue his father's quest, searching for years as his father had. Finally, Mehemet came to the gem's final resting place. Holding the ruby, he gained the powers of the Scarlet Scarab, and decided to become the new champion of Egypt. One of his goals was to protect the priceless ancient artifacts of Egypt. In one mission to recover some stolen artifacts, the Scarlet Scarab encountered [[Thor (Marvel Comics)|Thor]], who mistook his intentions and the two fought to a standstill.<ref name=Mehemet/><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zorrilla |first=Mónica Marie |title=Scarlet Scarab: 'Moon Knight' finale's biggest twist is a historic MCU first |url=https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/moon-knight-scarlet-scarab |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Inverse |date=5 May 2022 |language=en}}</ref>

===Layla El-Faouly===
Layla was the daughter of a famous scholar who grew up and became a mercenary who made numerous criminal connections. She joined the Karnak Cowboys consisting of [[Moon Knight|Marc Spector]], Jean-Paul Duchamp, and Dr. Robert Plesko. Layla and Marc would fall in love, gaining a reputation for arguing like a bickering couple. During a mission against [[Hydra (comics)|Hydra]], Layla lost her life, turning Marc down the path that would turn him into Moon Knight.<ref>''Moon Knight'' Vol. 9 #25. Marvel Comics.</ref> Years later, Marc as Moon Knight would journey into the [[Duat]] to the save the life a young boy named Khalil, where he encountered Layla who following her death, was judged by the Goddess [[Taweret (Marvel Comics)|Taweret]]. Finding that her heart evened out on her scales, Taweret turned her into Duat's champion the Scarlet Scarab. Layla and Marc teamed up to rescue Khalil from the Legion of the Unliving and Marc's brother Randall who had been transformed into the [[Shadow Knight (character)|Jackal Knight]]. Following the heroes' victory, Marc returned to the land of the living with Khalil and shared one last kiss with Layla. Unbeknownst to him however, Layla also materialized on Earth, promising to see Marc again soon.<ref>''Moon Knight: City of the Dead''. Marvel Comics.</ref>


== Powers and abilities ==
== Powers and abilities ==
Abdul and Mehemet have superhuman strength and durability, the ability to fly at high speeds, the ability to fire concussive bursts of mystical energy, and the ability to drain the power from anyone who touches it.<ref>{{Cite web |author1=Grant DeArmitt Contributions from George Marston |date=2022-05-04 |title=Scarlet Scarab - the obscure Marvel Comics history of the new Moon Knight superhero |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/scarlet-scarab-moon-knight-marvel-comics/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=gamesradar |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Farley |first=Lloyd |date=2022-05-06 |title='Moon Knight': Scarlet Scarab, Explained |url=https://collider.com/moon-knight-scarlet-scarab-layla-explained/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Collider |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Craig |first=Jo |date=2022-05-04 |title=Who is Moon Knight's Scarlet Scarab? Layla's transformation explained |url=https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2022/05/04/who-is-moon-knights-scarlet-scarab-laylas-transformation-explained/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=HITC |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bruce |first=Amanda |date=2022-04-26 |title=Moon Knight: Who Is Layla's Father? |url=https://gamerant.com/moon-knight-layla-father-explained/ |access-date=2022-10-12 |website=Game Rant |language=en-US}}</ref> Abdul needed to maintain contact with the Scarab to use its power.<ref name=Abdul/>
Abdul and Mehemet have superhuman strength and durability, the ability to fly at high speeds, the ability to fire concussive bursts of mystical energy, and the ability to sap the power from others on contact. Abdul needed to maintain contact with the Scarab to use its power.


==In other media==
== In other media ==

In the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] television series ''[[Moon Knight (TV series)|Moon Knight]]'', [[May Calamawy]] appears as [[Layla El-Faouly|Layla El-Faouly / Scarlet Scarab]], an archeologist and adventurer,<ref name="D23Characters">{{Cite web |last=Buhlman |first=Jocelyn |date=March 23, 2022 |title=Meet the Chaotic Cast of Characters in Marvel Studios' Moon Knight |url=https://d23.com/meet-the-chaotic-cast-of-characters-in-marvel-studios-moon-knight/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220324174509/https://d23.com/meet-the-chaotic-cast-of-characters-in-marvel-studios-moon-knight/ |archive-date=March 24, 2022 |access-date=March 24, 2022 |website=[[D23 (Disney)|D23]]}}</ref> who is Spector's wife and is aware he is Moon Knight.<ref name="GizmodoEp2Recap">{{Cite web |last=Graves |first=Sabina |date=April 6, 2022 |title=Moon Knight Is Starting to Reveal More About Its Mysterious Antagonist |url=https://gizmodo.com/moon-knight-is-starting-to-reveal-more-about-its-myster-1848754351 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220406215025/https://gizmodo.com/moon-knight-is-starting-to-reveal-more-about-its-myster-1848754351 |archive-date=April 6, 2022 |access-date=April 6, 2022 |website=[[Gizmodo]]}}</ref> El-Faouly was originally not Egyptian, a change lead director [[Mohamed Diab]] pushed for,<ref name="VarietyMar2022">{{Cite web |last=Vary |first=Adam B. |date=March 30, 2022 |title=How 'Moon Knight' Sends Marvel Studios Into the Unknown: 'We're Creating a Whole New Thing' |url=https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-oscar-isaac-marvel-egypt-dissociative-identity-disorder-1235219568/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331140052/https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-oscar-isaac-marvel-egypt-dissociative-identity-disorder-1235219568/ |archive-date=March 31, 2022 |access-date=March 31, 2022 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref> but rather a Caucasian woman which ''[[Elle (magazine)|Elle]]'' reported was the character [[Marlene Alraune]], Spector's wife in the comics.<ref name="CalamawyElle">{{Cite web |last=Flint |first=Hanna |date=April 20, 2022 |title=May Calamawy Is Doing Moon Knight Her Way |url=https://www.elle.com/culture/movies-tv/a39756507/may-calamawy-moon-knight-interview/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506144206/https://www.elle.com/culture/movies-tv/a39756507/may-calamawy-moon-knight-interview/ |archive-date=May 6, 2022 |access-date=May 7, 2022 |website=[[Elle (magazine)|Elle]]}}</ref> Creator [[Jeremy Slater]] later clarified that Marlene was never part of the series, citing the importance of diversity within the writers room, and that the character was originally named Zayna Faoul.<ref name="SlaterLayla">{{Cite tweet |number=1517597644545175552 |user=jerslater |title=It's a great profile about the amazing May Calamawy, but I do want to clear up one inaccuracy. Marlene was never a part of our show. Diversity was incredibly important to our writers room, and Layla was created our very first week. (Although she was originally named Zayna Faoul.) |author=Jeremy Slater |author-link=Jeremy Slater |date=April 22, 2022 |access-date=April 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220422210157/https://twitter.com/jerslater/status/1517597644545175552 |archive-date=April 22, 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref> Calamawy described her character as someone with "a lot of healing to do", who "step[s] into herself more" and "develops more confidence and trust in herself" through supporting Spector. She drew inspiration from Middle Eastern women, who "have a very unassuming, soft strength to them",<ref name="LATimesEp2Interview">{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Tracy |date=April 6, 2022 |title=The mysterious Layla makes her 'Moon Knight' debut in Episode 2. Here's her backstory |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-04-06/moon-knight-episode-2-marvel-layla-may-calamawy-mr-knight |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220408031501/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-04-06/moon-knight-episode-2-marvel-layla-may-calamawy-mr-knight |archive-date=April 8, 2022 |access-date=April 7, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]]}}</ref> and avoided Western actresses, such as [[Angelina Jolie]] who had portrayed the tomb-raiding [[Lara Croft]].<ref name="CalamawyElle" /> Calamawy called El-Faouly a street fighter, and wanted her stunts to reflect that by having them be reactionary and not choreographed or clean.<ref name="CalamawyElle" /> El-Faouly becomes the [[Scarlet Scarab]], the temporary avatar of the Egyptian goddess [[Taweret (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Taweret]];<ref name="CalamawyMarvelTaweret">{{Cite web |last=Paige |first=Rachel |date=May 4, 2022 |title=‘Moon Knight’: May Calamawy is The MCU’s First Egyptian Super Hero Scarlet Scarab |url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-scarlet-scarab |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506144125/https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-scarlet-scarab |archive-date=May 6, 2022 |access-date=May 7, 2022 |website=[[Marvel.com]]}}</ref> this name was revealed by ''Marvel.com'' following the series' finale,<ref name="CalamawyGoherMarvelScarletScarab">{{Cite web |last=Paige |first=Rachel |date=May 4, 2022 |title='Moon Knight': May Calamawy and Sara Goher on the Magic of Bringing Egyptian Super Hero Scarlet Scarab On-Screen |url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-magic-of-egyptian-super-hero-scarlet-scarab |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220504105124/https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-magic-of-egyptian-super-hero-scarlet-scarab |archive-date=May 4, 2022 |access-date=May 4, 2022 |website=[[Marvel.com]]}}</ref><ref name="DiabVarietyMay2022">{{Cite web |last=Vary |first=Adam B. |date=May 4, 2022 |title=‘Moon Knight’ Director Mohamed Diab on the Season Finale, Oscar Isaac’s Return and the MCU’s First Egyptian Superhero |url=https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-season-finale-jake-lockley-scarlet-scarab-mohamed-diab-1235258810/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506080806/https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-season-finale-jake-lockley-scarlet-scarab-mohamed-diab-1235258810/ |archive-date=May 6, 2022 |access-date=May 7, 2022 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref> with Diab noting he had not connected her to that character from the comics, explaining, "Sometimes Marvel picks a name and then gives it to the character that is developed." He pointed out that at the moment, she did not receive her powers from the scarab, but ultimately felt what the character represented was more important than her name.<ref name="DiabVarietyMay2022" />
=== Miscellaneous ===

* An original version of Scarlet Scarab, '''[[Layla El-Faouly]]''', appears in the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] series ''[[Moon Knight (miniseries)|Moon Knight]]'', portrayed by [[May Calamawy]]. This version is an archaeologist, adventurer, and [[Marc Spector (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Marc Spector]]'s wife, as well as the daughter of an archaeologist who was murdered by one of Spector's associates.<ref name="D23Characters" /><ref name="GizmodoEp2Recap" /> El-Faouly's backstory is based on [[Marlene Alraune]], Spector's wife in the comics, who was changed from white to Egyptian at the suggestion of director [[Mohamed Diab]].<ref name="VarietyMar2022" /><ref name="CalamawyElle" /><ref name="SlaterLayla" /><ref name="LATimesEp2Interview" /> El-Faouly becomes the Scarlet Scarab in the sixth episode, "[[Gods and Monsters (Moon Knight)|Gods and Monsters]]", after choosing to act as a temporary avatar of the deity [[Taweret (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Taweret]].<ref name="CalamawyMarvelTaweret" /><ref name="Marvel20220504" /><ref name="DiabVarietyMay2022" /> Diab noted he had not connected her to that character from the comics, explaining, "Sometimes Marvel picks a name and then gives it to the character that is developed." He pointed out that at the moment, she did not receive her powers from the scarab, but ultimately felt what the character represented was more important than her name.<ref name="DiabVarietyMay2022" /> The character was later adapted into the comics.
* In 2022, [[Funko]] released a Layla El-Faouly / Scarlet Scarab [[Funko Pop]] figure inspired by the MCU incarnation of the character.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leishman |first=Rachel |date=May 6, 2022 |title=Funko Unveils 'Moon Knight' Pops for Khonshu, Ammit, and Layla's Scarlet Scarab Suit |url=https://collider.com/moon-knight-funkos-layla-ammit-khonshu/ |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lacey |first=Kellie |date=May 10, 2022 |title=Funko Debuts a Glorious SDCC Limited Edition Moon Knight Pop! |url=https://www.cbr.com/moon-knight-funko-sdcc-limited-edition/ |access-date=2024-08-01 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |language=en}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist|30em|refs=

<!-- Marvel Comics -->

<ref name="Alter Ego">{{Cite web |url= http://www.twomorrows.com/alterego/articles/01infinity.html |title= The Secret Origin of Infinity Inc. |first1= Roy |last1= Thomas |first2= Jerry |last2= Ordway |author-link2= Jerry Ordway |website= [[Alter Ego (magazine)|Alter Ego]] vol. 3 #1 |access-date= March 23, 2011}}</ref>

<ref name="Supernatral Thrillers">''Supernatural Thrillers'' Vol 1 8-15</ref>

<ref name=Mehemet>''Thor'' vol 1 #326 (Dec, 1982), w. Doug Moench.</ref>

<ref name=Abdul>{{cite web |url=https://www.marvel.com/characters/scarlet-scarab |title=SCARLET SCARAB |publisher= [[Marvel Comics]] |access-date= May 16, 2022}}</ref>

<!-- Marvel Cinematic Universe -->

<ref name="D23Characters">{{Cite web |last=Buhlman |first=Jocelyn |date=March 23, 2022 |title=Meet the Chaotic Cast of Characters in Marvel Studios' Moon Knight |url=https://d23.com/meet-the-chaotic-cast-of-characters-in-marvel-studios-moon-knight/ |website=[[D23 (Disney)|D23]] |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220324174509/https://d23.com/meet-the-chaotic-cast-of-characters-in-marvel-studios-moon-knight/ |archive-date= March 24, 2022}}</ref>

<ref name="GizmodoEp2Recap">{{Cite web |last=Graves |first=Sabina |date=April 6, 2022 |title=Moon Knight Is Starting to Reveal More About Its Mysterious Antagonist |url=https://gizmodo.com/moon-knight-is-starting-to-reveal-more-about-its-myster-1848754351 |website=[[Gizmodo]] |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220406215025/https://gizmodo.com/moon-knight-is-starting-to-reveal-more-about-its-myster-1848754351 |archive-date=April 6, 2022}}</ref>

<ref name="VarietyMar2022">{{Cite web |last=Vary |first=Adam B. |date=March 30, 2022 |title=How 'Moon Knight' Sends Marvel Studios Into the Unknown: 'We're Creating a Whole New Thing' |url=https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-oscar-isaac-marvel-egypt-dissociative-identity-disorder-1235219568/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220331140052/https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-oscar-isaac-marvel-egypt-dissociative-identity-disorder-1235219568/ |archive-date=March 31, 2022 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CalamawyElle">{{Cite web |last=Flint |first=Hanna |date=April 20, 2022 |title=May Calamawy Is Doing Moon Knight Her Way |url=https://www.elle.com/culture/movies-tv/a39756507/may-calamawy-moon-knight-interview/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506144206/https://www.elle.com/culture/movies-tv/a39756507/may-calamawy-moon-knight-interview/ |archive-date=May 6, 2022 |website=[[Elle (magazine)|Elle]]}}</ref>

<ref name="SlaterLayla">{{Cite tweet |number=1517597644545175552 |user=jerslater |title=It's a great profile about the amazing May Calamawy, but I do want to clear up one inaccuracy. Marlene was never a part of our show. Diversity was incredibly important to our writers room, and Layla was created our very first week. (Although she was originally named Zayna Faoul.) |author=Jeremy Slater |author-link=Jeremy Slater |date=April 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220422210157/https://twitter.com/jerslater/status/1517597644545175552 |archive-date=April 22, 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref>

<ref name="LATimesEp2Interview">{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Tracy |date=April 6, 2022 |title=The mysterious Layla makes her 'Moon Knight' debut in Episode 2. Here's her backstory |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-04-06/moon-knight-episode-2-marvel-layla-may-calamawy-mr-knight |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220408031501/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2022-04-06/moon-knight-episode-2-marvel-layla-may-calamawy-mr-knight |archive-date=April 8, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]]}}</ref>

<ref name="CalamawyMarvelTaweret">{{Cite web |last=Paige |first=Rachel |date=May 4, 2022 |title='Moon Knight': May Calamawy is The MCU's First Egyptian Super Hero Scarlet Scarab |url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-scarlet-scarab |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506144125/https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-scarlet-scarab |archive-date=May 6, 2022 |website=[[Marvel.com]]}}</ref>

<ref name=Marvel20220504>{{Cite web |last=Paige |first=Rachel |date=May 4, 2022 |title='Moon Knight': May Calamawy and Sara Goher on the Magic of Bringing Egyptian Super Hero Scarlet Scarab On-Screen |url=https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-magic-of-egyptian-super-hero-scarlet-scarab |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220504105124/https://www.marvel.com/articles/tv-shows/moon-knight-may-calamawy-magic-of-egyptian-super-hero-scarlet-scarab |archive-date=May 4, 2022 |website=[[Marvel.com]]}}</ref>

<ref name="DiabVarietyMay2022">{{Cite web |last=Vary |first=Adam B. |date=May 4, 2022 |title='Moon Knight'Director Mohamed Diab on the Season Finale, Oscar Isaac's Return and the MCU's First Egyptian Superhero |url=https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-season-finale-jake-lockley-scarlet-scarab-mohamed-diab-1235258810/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220506080806/https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/moon-knight-season-finale-jake-lockley-scarlet-scarab-mohamed-diab-1235258810/ |archive-date=May 6, 2022 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref>

}}


==External links==
==External links==
*{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/scarscbi.htm|Scarlet Scarab}}
* {{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/scarscbi.htm|Scarlet Scarab}}
*{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/scarscbt.htm|Scarlet Scarab}}
* {{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/scarscbt.htm|Scarlet Scarab}}
*{{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/scarabru.htm|The Ruby Scarab}}
* {{Marvunapp|http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/scarabru.htm|The Ruby Scarab}}

{{Moon Knight}}


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[[Category:Characters created by Archie Goodwin (comics)]]
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[[Category:Egyptian superheroes]]
[[Category:Egyptian superheroes]]
[[Category:Fictional archaeologists]]
[[Category:Fictional archaeologists]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics characters with superhuman durability or invulnerability]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics characters with superhuman strength]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics characters with superhuman strength]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics male superheroes]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics male supervillains]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics superheroes]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics superheroes]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics supervillains]]
[[Category:Marvel Comics supervillains]]
[[Category:Moon Knight]]

Latest revision as of 18:37, 9 October 2024

Not to be confused with Scarlet Scarab (DC Comics).
Scarlet Scarab
Layla El-Faouly / Scarlet Scarab.
Textless variant cover of
Moon Knight: City of the Dead #4 (October 2023).
Art by Liu Xiaotong.
Publication information
PublisherMarvel Comics
First appearance
Created by
In-story information
Alter ego
  • First:
  • Abdul Faoul
  • Second:
  • Mehemet Faoul
  • Third:
  • Layla El-Faouly
SpeciesAll:
Human mutate (empowered by the Ruby Scarab)
AbilitiesBoth:
  • Superhuman strength and durability
  • Fire concussive bursts of mystical energy
  • Ability to sap the power from others on contact
  • Flight

Scarlet Scarab is the name of three characters appearing in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by Roy Thomas, Archie Goodwin, and Frank Robbins, Abdul Faoul, the first Scarlet Scarab, made his first appearance in The Invaders #23 (December 1977). The second Scarlet Scarab, Mehemet Faoul, was created by Doug Moench and Alan Kupperberg, and made his debut in Thor #326 (December 1982).

May Calamawy stars as Layla El-Faouly in the Marvel Cinematic Universe television series Moon Knight (2022), with the character becoming the Scarlet Scarab in its final episode while predating her being introduced in the comics as the third Scarlet Scarab.

Development

[edit]

Concept and creation

[edit]

According to Roy Thomas, the Scarlet Scarab, like the Silver Scarab in Infinity, Inc., was an homage to the Dan Garret incarnation of the Blue Beetle "about whom I had written my second professional comics story back in 1965."[1] The creators of the Ruby Scarab were named Garret and Dann.

Publication history

[edit]

The first Scarlet Scarab first appeared in The Invaders #23 (December 1977), and was created by Roy Thomas, Archie Goodwin, and Frank Robbins. The character also appeared in The Invaders #25 (February 1978).

The second Scarlet Scarab first appeared in Thor #326 (December 1982), and was created by Doug Moench and Alan Kupperberg. He received an entry in the original The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe #9.

A third Scarlet Scarab, based on the MCU incarnation, debuted in Moon Knight Vol. 9 #25 (September 2023) from writer Jed MacKay and art by Alessandro Cappuccio, Alessandro Vitti, and Partha Pratim.[2] She appeared in the 2023 Moon Knight: City of the Dead series.[3]

Fictional character biography

[edit]

Abdul Faoul

[edit]

Abdul Faoul was a famous archaeologist during World War II.[4][5] He unearthed the Ruby Scarab, an artifact that was originally created to battle the Elementals, around 3500 B.C. When Dr. Faoul touched the mystical power-object, he became the Scarlet Scarab and became a champion of Egypt during World War II.[6][7][8]

Dr. Faoul worked as a liaison between the Allied Forces and the Egyptian government, and led the Human Torch and Namor to a recently excavated pyramid in search of the fanatic nationalist group, the Sons of the Scarab, which was actually led by Faoul.[9] He tricked the heroes into opening the vault where the fist-sized ruby was kept. As the Scarlet Scarab, he first ousted the British, and then the Nazis, from Egypt. Scarlet Scarab continued to battle criminals after the war until the ruby simply disappeared in the 1950s, .[citation needed]

Dr. Faoul had not realized that the gem's crafter, a powerful pre-dynastic Egyptian sorcerer named Garret, had placed an enchantment on it that the ruby returns to Garret's tomb whenever it had used up its stored mystical power. Faoul searches for the ruby for twenty years, not realizing it had returned to where he had found it. Eventually, the Elementals sent N'Kantu, the Living Mummy to fetch the ruby. The ruby changed hands a number of times after N'Kantu recovered it, going from the Living Monolith, a thief named Daniel "the Asp" Aspen, the Elementals, and an extra-dimensional traveler named Hecate.[10] Meanwhile, Dr. Faoul continued searching until his death. As his dying act, he requested his son Mehemet to continue his quest.[11][12]

Mehemet Faoul

[edit]

Mehemet received from his father the strongbox he had used to store the Ruby Scarab. Inside was the costume he had worn as the Scarlet Scarab, a journal of his exploits, and a photo of the ruby. Mehemet considered it his duty to continue his father's quest, searching for years as his father had. Finally, Mehemet came to the gem's final resting place. Holding the ruby, he gained the powers of the Scarlet Scarab, and decided to become the new champion of Egypt. One of his goals was to protect the priceless ancient artifacts of Egypt. In one mission to recover some stolen artifacts, the Scarlet Scarab encountered Thor, who mistook his intentions and the two fought to a standstill.[11][13]

Layla El-Faouly

[edit]

Layla was the daughter of a famous scholar who grew up and became a mercenary who made numerous criminal connections. She joined the Karnak Cowboys consisting of Marc Spector, Jean-Paul Duchamp, and Dr. Robert Plesko. Layla and Marc would fall in love, gaining a reputation for arguing like a bickering couple. During a mission against Hydra, Layla lost her life, turning Marc down the path that would turn him into Moon Knight.[14] Years later, Marc as Moon Knight would journey into the Duat to the save the life a young boy named Khalil, where he encountered Layla who following her death, was judged by the Goddess Taweret. Finding that her heart evened out on her scales, Taweret turned her into Duat's champion the Scarlet Scarab. Layla and Marc teamed up to rescue Khalil from the Legion of the Unliving and Marc's brother Randall who had been transformed into the Jackal Knight. Following the heroes' victory, Marc returned to the land of the living with Khalil and shared one last kiss with Layla. Unbeknownst to him however, Layla also materialized on Earth, promising to see Marc again soon.[15]

Powers and abilities

[edit]

Abdul and Mehemet have superhuman strength and durability, the ability to fly at high speeds, the ability to fire concussive bursts of mystical energy, and the ability to drain the power from anyone who touches it.[16][17][18][19] Abdul needed to maintain contact with the Scarab to use its power.[20]

In other media

[edit]

Miscellaneous

[edit]
  • An original version of Scarlet Scarab, Layla El-Faouly, appears in the Marvel Cinematic Universe series Moon Knight, portrayed by May Calamawy. This version is an archaeologist, adventurer, and Marc Spector's wife, as well as the daughter of an archaeologist who was murdered by one of Spector's associates.[21][22] El-Faouly's backstory is based on Marlene Alraune, Spector's wife in the comics, who was changed from white to Egyptian at the suggestion of director Mohamed Diab.[23][24][25][26] El-Faouly becomes the Scarlet Scarab in the sixth episode, "Gods and Monsters", after choosing to act as a temporary avatar of the deity Taweret.[27][28][29] Diab noted he had not connected her to that character from the comics, explaining, "Sometimes Marvel picks a name and then gives it to the character that is developed." He pointed out that at the moment, she did not receive her powers from the scarab, but ultimately felt what the character represented was more important than her name.[29] The character was later adapted into the comics.
  • In 2022, Funko released a Layla El-Faouly / Scarlet Scarab Funko Pop figure inspired by the MCU incarnation of the character.[30][31]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Thomas, Roy; Ordway, Jerry. "The Secret Origin of Infinity Inc". Alter Ego vol. 3 #1. Retrieved March 23, 2011.
  2. ^ Schedeen, Jesse (April 19, 2023). "Moon Knight: The MCU's Scarlet Scarab to Make Marvel Comics Debut". IGN. Retrieved April 19, 2023.
  3. ^ "The Scarlet Scarab Comes to Marvel Comics in 'Moon Knight: City of the Dead'". Marvel.com. April 19, 2023. Retrieved 2024-08-01.
  4. ^ Grant DeArmitt Contributions from George Marston (2022-05-04). "Scarlet Scarab - the obscure Marvel Comics history of the new Moon Knight superhero". gamesradar. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  5. ^ Li, Michael (2022-05-07). "Moon Knight Introduces a New Take on a Classic Marvel Character". CBR. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  6. ^ Li, Michael (2022-05-07). "Moon Knight Introduces a New Take on a Classic Marvel Character". CBR. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  7. ^ Farley, Lloyd (2022-05-06). "'Moon Knight': Scarlet Scarab, Explained". Collider. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  8. ^ Zorrilla, Mónica Marie (5 May 2022). "Scarlet Scarab: 'Moon Knight' finale's biggest twist is a historic MCU first". Inverse. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  9. ^ "Who Is Scarlet Scarab? Are There Two Versions Of The Same Superhero?". Fossbytes. 2022-05-05. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  10. ^ Supernatural Thrillers Vol 1 8-15
  11. ^ a b Thor vol 1 #326 (Dec, 1982), w. Doug Moench.
  12. ^ Farley, Lloyd (2022-05-06). "'Moon Knight': Scarlet Scarab, Explained". Collider. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  13. ^ Zorrilla, Mónica Marie (5 May 2022). "Scarlet Scarab: 'Moon Knight' finale's biggest twist is a historic MCU first". Inverse. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  14. ^ Moon Knight Vol. 9 #25. Marvel Comics.
  15. ^ Moon Knight: City of the Dead. Marvel Comics.
  16. ^ Grant DeArmitt Contributions from George Marston (2022-05-04). "Scarlet Scarab - the obscure Marvel Comics history of the new Moon Knight superhero". gamesradar. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  17. ^ Farley, Lloyd (2022-05-06). "'Moon Knight': Scarlet Scarab, Explained". Collider. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  18. ^ Craig, Jo (2022-05-04). "Who is Moon Knight's Scarlet Scarab? Layla's transformation explained". HITC. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  19. ^ Bruce, Amanda (2022-04-26). "Moon Knight: Who Is Layla's Father?". Game Rant. Retrieved 2022-10-12.
  20. ^ "SCARLET SCARAB". Marvel Comics. Retrieved May 16, 2022.
  21. ^ Buhlman, Jocelyn (March 23, 2022). "Meet the Chaotic Cast of Characters in Marvel Studios' Moon Knight". D23. Archived from the original on March 24, 2022.
  22. ^ Graves, Sabina (April 6, 2022). "Moon Knight Is Starting to Reveal More About Its Mysterious Antagonist". Gizmodo. Archived from the original on April 6, 2022.
  23. ^ Vary, Adam B. (March 30, 2022). "How 'Moon Knight' Sends Marvel Studios Into the Unknown: 'We're Creating a Whole New Thing'". Variety. Archived from the original on March 31, 2022.
  24. ^ Flint, Hanna (April 20, 2022). "May Calamawy Is Doing Moon Knight Her Way". Elle. Archived from the original on May 6, 2022.
  25. ^ Jeremy Slater [@jerslater] (April 22, 2022). "It's a great profile about the amazing May Calamawy, but I do want to clear up one inaccuracy. Marlene was never a part of our show. Diversity was incredibly important to our writers room, and Layla was created our very first week. (Although she was originally named Zayna Faoul.)" (Tweet). Archived from the original on April 22, 2022 – via Twitter.
  26. ^ Brown, Tracy (April 6, 2022). "The mysterious Layla makes her 'Moon Knight' debut in Episode 2. Here's her backstory". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on April 8, 2022.
  27. ^ Paige, Rachel (May 4, 2022). "'Moon Knight': May Calamawy is The MCU's First Egyptian Super Hero Scarlet Scarab". Marvel.com. Archived from the original on May 6, 2022.
  28. ^ Paige, Rachel (May 4, 2022). "'Moon Knight': May Calamawy and Sara Goher on the Magic of Bringing Egyptian Super Hero Scarlet Scarab On-Screen". Marvel.com. Archived from the original on May 4, 2022.
  29. ^ a b Vary, Adam B. (May 4, 2022). "'Moon Knight'Director Mohamed Diab on the Season Finale, Oscar Isaac's Return and the MCU's First Egyptian Superhero". Variety. Archived from the original on May 6, 2022.
  30. ^ Leishman, Rachel (May 6, 2022). "Funko Unveils 'Moon Knight' Pops for Khonshu, Ammit, and Layla's Scarlet Scarab Suit". Collider. Retrieved 2024-08-01.
  31. ^ Lacey, Kellie (May 10, 2022). "Funko Debuts a Glorious SDCC Limited Edition Moon Knight Pop!". Comic Book Resources. Retrieved 2024-08-01.
[edit]
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